Melatonin and Autism
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Ranking : 
Type(s) : Diets and supplements
Introduction
Melatonin – also known as N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine – is a hormone and neurotransmitter produced by the pineal gland.
Melatonin increases our propensity for sleep and sets our circadian rhythm control (body clock).
Some people believe that melatonin regulation may be abnormal in some autistic people, causing them to have problems falling asleep or staying asleep.
They also believe those problems can be overcome by taking melatonin supplements.
Opinion
There is strong research evidence to suggest that melatonin may be effective in reducing sleep disturbances in some in some autistic individuals.
Because of this we feel that large scale, high-quality research is justified.
Further information
Please see the Advanced version of this page for more information about this intervention, including relevant research studies and details of how we ranked them.
Disclaimer
Please read our Disclaimer about this intervention.
Last Updated : 10/06/2013 Back to Top
