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Abstract
Objective: To retrieve and review all the relevant literature describing the administration of melatonin to treat impaired sleep in children following acquired brain injury (ABI).
Methods: A systematic search and retrieval of the literature was conducted using advanced search techniques. The retrieval identified 589 papers, seven of which were relevant. Review/outcomes criteria were developed and study quality was determined.
Results: There is paucity of high-quality evidence to support use of melatonin for sleep impairment post paediatric ABI. Variation in dosage, screening and outcome measures, data reporting and a lack of impairment delineation and treatment stratification were recurrent themes.
Conclusion: Retrieved evidence for the effectiveness of melatonin for post paediatric ABI sleep impairment appears promising. There is a clear need for further study in this area to inform clinical and research practices. Recommendations are given.
Acknowledgements
The authors thank Dr Michael Clarke, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist for his immensely useful comments.
Declaration of interest: The authors report no declarations of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the writing and content of this article.