Melatonin Improves Sleep-Related Variables in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Background: Not many randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have explored the effects of melatonin and melatonin products on sleep parameters such as sleep latency (SL) and total sleep time (TST). This importance magnifies when we speak of children with autism who are susceptible to sleep disturbances with no currently approved intervention. Therefore, this meta-analysis was conducted to gather available data describing the influence of melatonin on these parameters.
Methods: A computer-aided search of Google Scholar, PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane complete, Medline Complete, EMBASE, Scopus, and ERIC databases from their inception to November 2020. We included all published (RCTs) studies that provided data on the relevant use of melatonin and melatonin products in children diagnosed with autism in adherence with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V). The risk of bias within the included (RCTs) was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for the prevalence studies. All statistical analysis was performed using the Review Manager software.
Findings: The present meta-analysis included 6 (RCTs) that reported the influence of melatonin and melatonin products on (SL) and (TST) in children with autism with a total sample size of 600 patients with an overall low risk of bias. The primary outcomes are sleep latency (SL) and total sleep time (TST). The main comparison for this study is melatonin VS. placebo for sleep problems in autistic pediatric patients.…
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: 600 participants or records.
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