Melatonin - even more problems at bedtime?!

[Blossom4538]

Hi all,

Anyone found their children’s bedtime routine has been even more challenging since going onto melatonin?

Our bedtime routine was ok, long, but ok - it was the waking in the night that was the problem. Since starting Melatonin we have lots of problems before bedtime - like she is exhausted and fighting against it.

Anyone else experienced this?

We were giving internet sourced 5mg gummies but CAMHS have now prescribed 2mg strength - she’s been on them almost 3 weeks. We may up dosage as we still have some waking at 2-3am and then staying awake all night!

Last night, she didn’t fall asleep until 11:15. I’d say 9:00-9:30 or 10 at a push seems right for her - although CAMHS said 8-8:30 (she’s almost 10 - ASD) xx

Hi Blossom...I assume the melatonin is slow release? They have a different effect to the gummies in that there isn't such an instant "hit" and might need to be taken a bit earlier. We find more effective if taken with food too. Also, for them to work as slow release my DS has to swallow them whole rather than crushed but of course that depends on the type your DD has and I don't know if she does this already anyway?

Me!!! My son has had sleep issues and continues to have them. I started with melatonin when he was 2.. Effects fade over time. You will need to try it all. Eventually may be consider meds for sleep.

Bed time routine.
White noise machine.
A consistent routine when the child wakes up are just some of things that will help!

Patience will be tested!
Hugs!

Thanks so much - CAMHS have said we can now try a time release version - Circadin, so fingers crossed.

Foxesjumpers - how long before bedtime do you give? Thanks

@Foxesjumpers - how long before bedtime do you give? Thanks

I was asked to give it 30 minutes before bedtime. Its effectiveness fades over time. It will help the child fall asleep but not as much with midnight wakings. Its not like you can offer a spray again!

So it works to an extent to wind down a tired child. Beyond that you have to carefully work on what helps(based on age and many other factors).

My DS has it (slow release one) 45 mins to and hour before I expect him to be asleep. With the gummies he could be asleep or at least very sleepy after 30 mins of taking it

*45 mins to an hour

Thanks, we have the time release to try tonight! 😬

This week paed told me to take melatonin earlier and move bedtime earlier