Melatonin is tolerated well in most children. Side effects are uncommon, but may include headache, restlessness, abdominal pain and itch. Rare side effects include nausea, agitation, visual disturbances and mood changes. Let your doctor know if you think that your child is experiencing these side effects.
If your child gets a fast heart rate (they may have a fluttering feeling in the chest or a faster heart beat), contact your doctor before giving the next evening's dose.
Your child's temperature may fall a little after taking melatonin. This is a normal reaction to melatonin.
There is a lack of long-term safety data available for melatonin in children. Although there is no evidence of impact on timing of puberty, the current advice is also that the growth and pubertal development of children taking melatonin should be monitored by the prescribing doctor.