Melatonin is a hormone involved in sleep regulation. Melatonin is currently used for secondary sleep disorders supported by research evidence. A small amount of evidence and some controversial results have been obtained in some randomized controlled trials (RCT). The objective of this meta-analysis is to determine the efficacy of exogenous melatonin versus placebo in managing secondary sleep disorders. Literature retrieval of eligible RCT was performed in 5 databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Web of Science). In total, 7 studies of 205 patients were included. Pooled data demonstrate that exogenous melatonin lowers sleep onset latency and increases total sleep time.
The researchers concluded:
“This meta-analysis clearly supports the use of melatonin as a management for patients with secondary sleep disorders.”
