SUPPLEMENTS & NUTRITION
Melatonin
A sleep-timing hormone sold over the counter in the US; evidence depends on the sleep problem and the person.
How it works
Melatonin signals 'night' to the body clock. It’s mostly studied for falling asleep and for shifting sleep timing.
What the evidence says, use by use
Evidence is specific to the condition, population and—for devices—the exact product. One label never covers everything.
Sleep: Falling asleep sooner in autistic children and children with ADHD
PromisingResearch suggests melatonin can shorten time to fall asleep in these children; behavioral sleep strategies are still recommended first, and pediatric use should be discussed with a clinician.
Sources: NCCIH
Who usually provides it
Over the counter in the US; discuss dose and product with a pediatrician or pharmacist.
Cautions & things to know
- US supplement labels can be inaccurate; gummies are easy for children to overtake.
- Can interact with some medicines.
Questions for a clinician
Conversation prompts, not a treatment plan.
- Have behavioral sleep strategies been tried?
- Which product and timing make sense, and for how long?
Educational, not medical advice. NeuroCoach is an educational and care-navigation resource, not a medical provider. Information about medications, supplements, therapies, devices, clinical trials and community experiences is provided for education and exploration and is not a recommendation, diagnosis or treatment plan. Evidence varies substantially among interventions. Decisions about medical or mental-health treatment should be made with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Do not start, stop or change medication, supplements or treatment based solely on information found here.
Sources
Sources checked October 5, 2026. Links support this page; they don’t imply endorsement of NeuroCoach.