In recent years, there has been growing concern about the appeal of drug-containing products among children. Products like nicotine-containing e-cigarettes with fruity and dessert-themed flavors, as well as edible cannabis products designed to resemble popular candies, have come under fire from federal regulators. However, a recent report from researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has shed light on a less-expected culprit: melatonin, particularly in gummy form.
Melatonin, a neurohormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, has become increasingly popular as a self-managing solution for conditions like sleep disorders and jet lag. Its usage among adults has risen significantly over the years, from 0.4 percent in 1999-2000 to 2.1 percent in 2017-2018. Unfortunately, with the rise in melatonin usage, there has also been an alarming increase in accidental melatonin ingestion among infants and children. This has resulted in a staggering 530 percent increase in poison control center calls and a 420 percent increase in emergency department visits between 2009 and 2020.
According to the new study, it is estimated that nearly 11,000 kids went to the emergency department between 2019 and 2022 after accidentally consuming melatonin supplements. The majority of these cases involved solid forms of melatonin, with gummies making up a significant portion. In fact, about 47 percent of the cases were specifically identified as gummies, while 49 percent were listed as an unspecified solid form, likely including gummies. These melatonin-related emergency visits accounted for 7 percent of all emergency visits by infants and children who ingested medications unsupervised.
What is particularly concerning is that most of these unsupervised melatonin exposures affected children between the ages of 3 and 5. This indicates that the candy-like appeal of melatonin products is drawing in younger children who may easily access and consume them. The study also noted that three-quarters of the melatonin products involved in these emergency visits came from bottles, suggesting that either the children managed to open the bottles themselves or that the bottles were not properly closed. It is important to highlight that manufacturers are not required to use child-resistant packaging for melatonin supplements.
Fortunately, most of the cases resulted in only mild or no effects. However, around 6.5 percent of the cases, totaling over 700 children, required hospitalization due to their melatonin binge. A separate study conducted in Michigan found that reported symptoms from poison control center calls involving children consuming melatonin included gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, or central nervous system issues. Known side effects of supervised melatonin use for sleep improvement in children include drowsiness, increased bedwetting or urination in the evening, headache, dizziness, and agitation.
While supervised use of melatonin in children for short-term purposes appears to be safe according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), there is limited data on long-term effects or acute exposures. The NCCIH warns that because melatonin is a hormone, it could potentially affect hormonal development, including puberty, menstrual cycles, and the overproduction of the hormone prolactin. However, more research is needed to fully understand the implications.
In light of these findings, it is crucial to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of keeping all medications and supplements, including melatonin gummies, out of the reach and sight of children. Ensuring proper storage and child-resistant packaging can play a significant role in preventing accidental ingestions. Moreover, healthcare professionals and pediatricians should be proactive in discussing the risks and benefits of melatonin use with parents, particularly when it comes to unsupervised consumption by young children.
The implications of this study extend beyond the specific issue of unsupervised melatonin ingestion. It raises broader questions about the safety and packaging regulations for over-the-counter supplements. As more and more individuals turn to such supplements for self-managing their health conditions, it becomes imperative for regulators to establish guidelines regarding child-resistant packaging and standardized dosing recommendations. By doing so, we can better protect the well-being of children and mitigate potential healthcare crises related to accidental ingestions.
Looking ahead, it is likely that discussions around the safety and regulation of over-the-counter supplements will gain more attention. As consumers increasingly seek alternative solutions for their health needs, the industry should take proactive steps to ensure product safety and proper labeling. Additionally, continued research into the long-term effects of melatonin use in children and other aspects of hormone regulation will be essential in providing evidence-based recommendations.
In conclusion, the rise in melatonin-related emergency department visits among children highlights the need for increased awareness and preventive measures. The candy-like appeal of melatonin gummies and the accessibility of these products underscore the importance of proper storage and child-resistant packaging. Regulators, manufacturers, healthcare professionals, and parents must work together to ensure the safe use of melatonin and other over-the-counter supplements. By addressing these challenges and taking proactive steps, we can better protect the well-being of our children and pave the way for a safer future in the self-care industry.