A recent federal report has highlighted a troubling trend in pediatric emergency room visits related to melatonin ingestion. The report revealed that nearly 11,000 U.S. children visited the emergency room after consuming melatonin without supervision, representing a staggering 420% increase over the past decade.
Melatonin, a popular supplement used by adults to aid sleep, is being ingested by infants and children at an alarming rate, leading to poison center calls and emergency visits. Between 2019 and 2022, researchers estimate that over 10,000 emergency visits were due to melatonin ingestion by unsupervised infants and children.
The report emphasizes the importance of educating parents and caregivers about the necessity of keeping all medications and supplements out of children’s reach and sight. Unlike prescription medications, melatonin supplements do not face the same packaging safety regulations, with a study revealing that many melatonin gummies are inaccurately labeled.
The study also found that a third of infants and children accessed melatonin from bottles that had not been properly closed. The overall increase in emergency visits related to pediatric melatonin ingestion from 2009 to 2020 was a staggering 420%, with a 530% increase in poison center calls during that timeframe.
The rise in pediatric exposures to melatonin coincides with the increased use of the supplement in adults, highlighting the importance of safe storage and proper usage. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health recommends consulting a healthcare provider before giving melatonin to children and ensuring safe storage and usage for adults. Celebrity Beauty Buzz reminds readers to prioritize the safety of their families by following these essential guidelines.
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