From the Research
Melatonin may help manage sleep problems in people with ADHD, but it is not a treatment for ADHD itself. For individuals with ADHD who struggle with sleep onset insomnia, melatonin supplements can be considered at doses of 1-6 mg taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime, as suggested by the most recent study 1. The relationship between melatonin and ADHD stems from the fact that many people with ADHD experience sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep, which can worsen ADHD symptoms during the day. Some key points to consider:
- Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the pineal gland that regulates sleep-wake cycles, and some research suggests people with ADHD may have delayed melatonin secretion 2.
- By improving sleep quality and duration, melatonin may indirectly help with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity symptoms.
- It's essential to address sleep hygiene practices first, such as maintaining consistent sleep schedules, limiting screen time before bed, and creating a calm sleep environment.
- Melatonin should be used under healthcare provider guidance, especially for children, as long-term effects are still being studied 3, 4.
- A systematic literature review found that sleep interventions, including melatonin, can have a moderate effect on sleep disturbances in children with ADHD, but the certainty of the evidence is low 5.
- The most recent and highest quality study suggests that low doses of melatonin (1 mg) can increase sleep duration in children and adolescents with ADHD, with an adequate tolerability profile 1.