Melatonin for children with autism spectrum disorder

Question I have several patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who experience difficulties with sleep, affecting the quality of life of both the child and the family. Is melatonin an effective treatment for steep problems in children with this condition? Answer Autism spectrum disorder is prevalent among children in Canada and globally, with most affected children experiencing troubles with sleep. Behavioural therapy is the first-line treatment for sleep problems in children with ASD, and melatonin has been reported to be effective and safe in this population as an alternative or adjunctive treatment. A new pediatric, prolonged-release formulation of melatonin is not yet available in Canada, but initial studies in Europe have indicated that it is a potentially effective treatment for sleep problems in children with ASD.