Melatonin for cognitive impairment
Abstract
BACKGROUND: There are a number of studies that suggest a relationship between decline of melatonin function and the symptoms of dementia.
OBJECTIVES: The review assessed the evidence of clinical efficacy and safety of melatonin in the treatment of manifestations of dementia or cognitive impairment (CI).
SEARCH STRATEGY: The Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group's Specialized Register was searched for trials involving melatonin on 5 October 2005. The search terms used were MELATONIN, and N-ACETYL-5-METHOXYTRYPTAMINE. This Register contains records from all major health care databases as well as many ongoing trials databases and is updated regularly.
SELECTION CRITERIA: All relevant, randomized controlled trials in which orally administered melatonin in any dosage was compared with a control group for the effect on managing cognitive, behavioural (excluding sleep), and/or affective disturbances of people with dementia of any degree of severity.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two to three reviewers independently assessed the retrieved articles for relevance and methodological quality, and extracted data from the selected studies. Statistically significant differences in changes in outcomes from baseline to end of treatment between the melatonin and control groups were examined. Each study was summarized using a measure of effect (e.g. mean difference) and meta-analyses were conducted when appropriate.
MAIN RESULTS: Three studies met the inclusion criteria. This…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 157 participants or records.
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