Autism melatonin

The peptide, melatonin, has been implicated in autism. Excess melatonin is thought to decrease learning, memory, attention, emotionality, motivation and pain responses (reviewed Chamberlain Herman, 1990)—all behaviours that are abnormal in autism. Melatonin, released from the pineal gland, is implicated in controlling serotonin and POMC (proopiomelanocortin) peptides, such as beta-endorphin, and an elevation may contribute to, or cause, the serotonin and opioid abnormalities (Chamberlain Herman, 1990). 

Open-label trial An open-label, escalating-dose trial of melatonin in the treatment of sleep disorder in 24 children (aged 3-9 years) with autism foxmd that 1 and 3 mg melatonin improved sleep latency in most children [58=]. Overall the treatment was well tolerated and safe with only one mild adverse event (loose stool) reported that may have been related to the melatonin preparation. 

Cortesi F, Giannotti F, Sebastiani T, Panunzi S, Valente D. Controlled-release melatonin, singly and combined with cognitive behavioural therapy, for persistent insomnia in children with autism spectrum disorders a randomized placebo-controlled trial. J Sleep Res 2012 21(6) 700-9. Epub 2012 /05/24. 

Malow B, Adkins KW, McGrew SG, Wang L, Goldman SE, Fawkes D, et al. Melatonin for sleep in children with autism a controlled trial examining dose, tolerability, and outcomes. J Autism Dev Disord 2012 42(8) 1729-37. 

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