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In recent years, there has been a worrying increase in cases of melatonin poisoning among children, with a drastic rise observed during the pandemic. Melatonin, often viewed as a harmless sleep aid, has gained popularity for its ability to promote sleep, especially when many faced sleepless nights. It is available in various forms, including easy-to-consume gummies, which can resemble candy to children. This has led to a concerning trend, with U.S. poison control centers reporting over 52,000 incidents of children accidentally ingesting melatonin last year alone.
A new CDC study highlights this alarming trend, revealing a staggering 530% increase in melatonin overdoses among children from 2012 to 2021. The most significant surge occurred between 2019 and 2020, coinciding with the onset of the pandemic, showing a 38% rise in cases among children and teens. Over the past decade, more than 260,000 overdose incidents were documented, with over 4,000 resulting in hospitalization and 300 needing intensive care. Notably, children under five years accounted for 83.8% of these incidents, and tragically, two infants—a 3-month-old and a 1-year-old—lost their lives due to melatonin poisoning. Experts suggest that the rise in these cases could be attributed to melatonin being left within reach, rather than safely stored like other medications.
Dr. Amy Carter, a leading researcher, emphasized the importance of treating melatonin with the same caution as any other medication, noting its candy-like appearance can be misleading. “Parents need to store melatonin just as they would any other potentially harmful substance,” she remarked.
Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by our bodies in response to darkness, but the synthetic versions found in supplements can pose risks when taken in large quantities. It is crucial to keep these supplements out of children’s reach and consult with a pediatrician before introducing them into a child’s routine. For more insights about safe practices in home insemination, check out this other blog post here.
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Summary
The rise in melatonin overdoses among children is alarming, with a significant increase documented over the past decade. The appeal of gummy supplements, often mistaken for candy, has led to a spike in accidental ingestions, resulting in hospitalizations and even fatalities. Parents must treat melatonin with caution and ensure safe storage away from children.
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