Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the pineal gland in the brain, primarily responsible for regulating the body's circadian rhythm to manage the natural sleep cycle. Its production increases with darkness to help promote sleep and decreases when exposed to light, signaling the body to wake up. Because of its critical role in managing sleep patterns, melatonin supplements are often used to treat sleep disorders, including those experienced by individuals with autism. If a pharmacological intervention is needed to aid sleep, consider melatonin and: only use it following consultation with a specialist paediatrician or psychiatrist with expertise in the management of autism or paediatric sleep medicine. It can be used in conjunction with non-pharmacological interventions. Regularly review to evaluate the ongoing need for a pharmacological intervention and to ensure that the benefits continue to outweigh the side effects and risks.