Gina Johnson
Sleep is an essential part of a child's development, and sleep problems can affect their overall well-being, school performance, and relationships. While sleep aids are available, the safety and efficacy of these treatments for children under 16 are not well understood. In this paragraph, we will explore the topic of sleep aids for 9-year-olds, discussing the potential benefits and risks associated with their use, and providing guidance for parents seeking solutions to their child's sleep difficulties.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Melatonin | A naturally occurring hormone that prepares the body for sleep. It is available over the counter. However, it is not approved by the FDA for childhood sleep disorders and has not been proven safe for children. Melatonin is not habit-forming and can be prescribed by doctors for children with persistent sleep problems. |
| Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) | One of the oldest and most frequently used over-the-counter medications for kids. It is an antihistamine intended to relieve allergy symptoms. It is not approved for use as a children's sleep aid and can have side effects such as drowsiness. |
| Benzodiazepines | Sleeping tablets that are sometimes prescribed for adults with sleep problems. Their effects in children have not been studied enough. |
| Zolpidem, zaleplon, eszopiclone | Agents that bind selectively to GABA receptors to reduce sleep onset latency and night awakenings and increase total sleep time. |
| Chloral hydrate | Occasionally used for pediatric insomnia, but safety concerns and side effects limit its use. |
| Trazodone | An atypical antidepressant prescribed for adults, but not supported for use in children. |
| Doxepin | Available for adult use and may have mixed effects in children. |
| Herbal remedies | Herbal remedies do not undergo the same testing as prescription or over-the-counter medicines. They can have side effects and should be used with caution. |
| Lifestyle changes | Before considering medication, it is recommended to try sleep and lifestyle changes, such as improving sleep hygiene, reducing screen time before bed, and relieving sources of stress. |
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What You'll Learn
Melatonin supplements
Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that helps the body prepare for sleep. Typically, the body increases melatonin production when it gets dark, signalling to the body that it is time for sleep. Melatonin supplements usually contain a lab-made version of melatonin. Melatonin is not a sleeping pill and is not habit-forming. It is also not a drug, and the industry is unregulated, meaning that the concentration of melatonin can vary across products and formulations.
There is not enough research to say whether melatonin is safe for kids, and the side effects of taking melatonin as a child are not fully known. Some parents have reported symptoms like bedwetting, drowsiness, headaches, and agitation in their children. There is also a risk of accidental overdose. Doctors recommend that melatonin should only be used after implementing healthy sleep habits that do not include medication.
If your child is struggling to fall asleep or get sufficient sleep, discuss trying melatonin with their pediatrician. Sleep aids are a temporary option for occasional restlessness, and it is recommended to create a holistic plan around better sleep with your child's pediatrician.
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Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Diphenhydramine, commonly known by the brand name Benadryl, is an antihistamine medication that can be used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes or a runny nose. It is one of the oldest and most frequently used over-the-counter (OTC) medications for children. The active ingredient in Benadryl that causes drowsiness is diphenhydramine, which is very potent and can take effect within about 30 minutes.
While Benadryl has been widely used for children, it is important to note that it is not specifically approved for use as a children's sleep aid. In fact, doctors generally do not recommend using Benadryl as a sleep aid for kids due to several associated risks. Benadryl has a long half-life, remaining in the system for up to 16 hours, which can lead to lingering sedative effects even after waking up. Additionally, tolerance to diphenhydramine can develop with repeated use, reducing its effectiveness over time if taken for more than three consecutive days.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides specific dosage guidelines for diphenhydramine, and it is important to follow these recommendations to ensure safe administration. For allergies, Benadryl is typically not recommended for children under one year of age as it can cause sleepiness. It is also generally advised to refrain from using Benadryl for colds at any age due to a lack of proven benefits. For children aged 6 years and older, Benadryl can be repeated every 4 to 6 hours as needed, with the dosage determined based on the child's weight.
It is crucial to consult a pediatrician or healthcare provider before administering Benadryl or any other sleep aid to a child. Sleep problems in children can often be addressed through improvements in bedtime routines, sleep hygiene, and sleep environments. Additionally, underlying conditions or disorders, such as hyperactivity or insomnia, may be contributing factors, and a holistic approach to improving sleep should be considered.
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Prescription sleep medications
Sleep problems in children can be caused by sleep disorders, pain, or medications. While sleep aids are a temporary option for occasional restlessness, they should not be used as a first-line treatment for sleep difficulties in children. If your child is struggling to fall asleep or get sufficient sleep, it is recommended to first implement changes to their bedtime routine and sleep environment, which often help to reduce sleep resistance and improve sleep quality. If these methods do not help, it is advised to consult a pediatrician or sleep specialist to create a holistic plan around better sleep.
Despite the lack of FDA approval, doctors often prescribe medications to treat sleep problems in children. Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), are commonly chosen for this purpose. However, Benadryl® is not approved for use as a children's sleep aid, and there are risks associated with its use, including potential side effects and the possibility of developing tolerance with prolonged use. Other prescription medications used for pediatric sleep problems include clonidine, guanfacine, benzodiazepines, zolpidem, zaleplon, eszopiclone, and chloral hydrate. Benzodiazepines and related agents like zolpidem, zaleplon, and eszopiclone are typically prescribed for adults, and their effects in children have not been extensively studied. Chloral hydrate is occasionally used for pediatric insomnia, but safety concerns and side effects limit its use.
It is important to note that medication for sleep problems in children should be approached with caution and only used under careful medical supervision. The potential side effects of sleep medications include daytime sleepiness, altered sleep patterns, and the risk of overdose or exacerbation of other health conditions. Additionally, long-term use may lead to dependence on the medication, causing rebound sleep issues when usage stops. Therefore, medication should be used in conjunction with behavioural treatment methods and only on a short-term basis.
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Non-prescription sleep medications
Sleep aids are not recommended for children under the age of two. They can cause side effects such as irritability, hyperactivity, challenging behaviour, and daytime drowsiness. Even herbal or 'natural' remedies can have side effects. It is always best to try sleep and lifestyle changes to help your child sleep better.
If your child struggles with adequate sleep or if you have concerns about a hyperactivity disorder, please contact their pediatrician to create a holistic plan around better sleep.
There is a lack of research on whether melatonin is safe for kids. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that prepares the body for sleep. Typically, the body ramps up melatonin production when it gets dark. Melatonin supplements are available over the counter and are most effective at moving sleep times earlier for people whose circadian rhythm naturally runs late. However, melatonin is not a sleeping pill and should only be used after a discussion with a pediatrician and pre-established healthy sleep habits that do not include medication.
The side effects of taking melatonin as a child are not fully known. Some parents have reported symptoms like bedwetting, drowsiness, headaches, and agitation. Parents should also be aware of the risk of accidental overdose and work closely with their child's pediatrician on the use of melatonin.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) is one of the oldest and most frequently used over-the-counter medications for kids. It is an antihistamine intended to relieve allergy symptoms like watery eyes or a runny nose. However, in most cases, doctors do not recommend using Benadryl® as a sleep aid for kids. It is not approved for use as a children's sleep aid, and there are several risks associated with taking it. Benadryl® stays in the system for 16 hours, meaning it can have lingering sedative effects after waking up.
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Natural sleep remedies
Sleep is essential for children's physical, mental, and emotional development. A lack of sleep can contribute to digestive issues, immune system problems, focus and behaviour challenges, anxiety, and other health concerns.
The FDA has not approved the use of any prescription or over-the-counter sleep medication for children under the age of 16. Sleep medications can have side effects such as daytime sleepiness and can lead to dependence.
- Stick to a bedtime routine: Children thrive on structure and clear expectations, so sticking to a bedtime routine may be one of the best sleep remedies for kids. This helps regulate your child's sleep-wake cycle and helps them associate bedtime with sleeping. You can also try earlier bedtimes, helping your child self-soothe with stuffed animals or blankets, rewarding positive behaviour, and being specific about what your child needs to do to get ready for bed.
- Create a calm sleep environment: White noise can be calming for many children and prevents them from being woken up by other stimuli outside their bedroom. Kids are extra sensitive to stimuli, so creating the right environment for your child to sleep can significantly improve their sleep.
- Limit screen time before bed: Blue light from tablets, e-readers, and smartphones affects melatonin levels more than any other wavelength. The blue light fools the brain into thinking it is daytime, making us feel more alert when we should be feeling sleepy. Over time, this disrupts the body's natural production of melatonin. The AAP recommends avoiding exposure to screens for at least 1 hour before going to bed.
- Sun exposure: Exposing your child to the sun in the morning and evening can help signal to their brain and body when it is time to start the day and when it is time to stop sleeping. Sun exposure in the evening can also help remind their body of its internal circadian rhythm.
- Chamomile tea: Chamomile has been used to treat everything from colds, teething pain, colic, indigestion, restlessness, anxiety, and irritability. It is a safe, mild sedative that can help children fall asleep more easily. A small amount of honey can be added for children over 12 months old. However, chamomile is in the Asteraceae (daisy) family, so it should not be given to anyone allergic to plants in this family.
- California Poppy: This herb is very gentle and does not contain opium or opiates. It is safe for kids over two years and is useful for restlessness, pain, and sleeplessness. It is included in many calming herbal formulas.
- Lavender: The smell of lavender is relaxing for most people and is widely used in aromatherapy to calm the nervous system and promote restful sleep. You can use lavender bath products before bed or spritz a few drops of organic lavender essential oil on your child's pillowcase.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral and essential nutrient. It has a calming effect on the nervous system and may help promote restful sleep. A good dosage for most children aged 2 to 8 years old is 100 mg of magnesium at bedtime.
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Frequently asked questions
The FDA has not approved the use of any prescription or over-the-counter sleep medication for children under the age of 16. Melatonin is a popular over-the-counter sleep aid that is a naturally occurring hormone in our bodies. However, it has not been approved by the FDA for childhood sleep disorders. It is recommended that you speak to a doctor or pediatrician before administering any sleep aids to your child.
Sleep medications often have side effects such as daytime sleepiness, irritability, hyperactivity, challenging behaviour, and altered sleep patterns. There is also the risk of overdose or that the medication may negatively interact with another health condition.
Yes, alternatives to sleep aids include improving sleep hygiene, making lifestyle changes, and trying cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia.
Melatonin is a common sleep aid that is available over the counter. It is a naturally occurring hormone in our bodies that helps to regulate our sleep-wake cycle. Another common sleep aid is Benadryl®, which is an antihistamine intended to relieve allergy symptoms. However, Benadryl® is not approved for use as a children's sleep aid and there are several risks associated with taking it.
