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melatonin in children premedication
Melatonin binds to melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2) in the brain to promote sleep and reduce anxiety in pediatric patients before medical procedures.
Melatonin binds to melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2) in the brain to promote sleep and reduce anxiety in pediatric patients before medical procedures. Used for Premedication and anxiolysis in children undergoing anesthesia or medical procedures.
At a glance
| Generic name | melatonin in children premedication |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Policlinico "G. Martino" |
| Drug class | Melatonin receptor agonist |
| Target | MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Anesthesia/Perioperative Medicine |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Melatonin is an endogenous hormone that regulates circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycles by activating melatonin receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus and other brain regions. In the premedication context, it reduces anxiety and promotes sedation in children undergoing anesthesia or medical procedures, offering a non-pharmacological alternative to benzodiazepines with a favorable safety profile.
Approved indications
- Premedication and anxiolysis in children undergoing anesthesia or medical procedures
Common side effects
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
Key clinical trials
- Melatonin vs Midazolam in Children Undergoing Tonsillectomy (PHASE3)
- Comparing Two Doses of Oral Melatonin as Premedication in Children Undergoing Surgery (NA)
- The Premedication Properties of Oral Melatonin in Pediatrics Undergoing Therapeutic Cardiac Catheterization (NA)
- Melatonin Premedication in Children Undergoing Surgery (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
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