Effectiveness of melatonin for sleep impairment post paediatric acquired brain injury: Evidence from a systematic review

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.

• Sleep impairment
• paediatric
• melatonin
• acquired brain injury

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.