Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Melatonin's use in dementia is primarily based on scientific investigation, though the overall evidence supporting its efficacy is limited and mixed. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, and sleep disturbances are common in patients with dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease. Several small clinical trials and meta-analyses have assessed whether melatonin supplementation can improve sleep quality, reduce sundowning (late-day confusion), and impact cognitive decline in dementia patients.

Results from these studies suggest that melatonin may modestly improve sleep parameters such as sleep latency and total sleep time in dementia patients, with some studies reporting decreased nighttime awakenings. However, the effects on cognitive symptoms of dementia appear minimal or absent, with most research indicating that melatonin does not significantly slow cognitive decline or improve daytime functioning. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine notes insufficient evidence to strongly recommend melatonin for sleep disturbances in dementia, citing variability in study quality and outcomes.

Melatonin is generally regarded as safe and well-tolerated in older adults, which contributes to its popularity as a treatment option. Nonetheless, because the symptom relief is modest and not all studies show benefit, melatonin should be considered as an adjunct rather than a primary therapy for dementia-related sleep problems. Further large-scale, high-quality clinical trials are needed to clarify its role and optimal dosing in this context.

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Nature's Sunshine Melatonin Extra