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Melatonin and Autism Ranking: Strong positive evidence

Audience

Melatonin is normally prescribed for adults aged over 55 years old who have difficulty falling or staying asleep. According to the Net Doctor website, accessed on 22 August 2017, this is because older adults produce less melatonin in their bodies.

 “The release of natural melatonin starts to decrease as we get older and can cause difficulties with sleeping. Taking this medicine before bed may therefore be particularly helpful for people aged over 55 years who are suffering from … insomnia.”

However, some researchers have suggested that melatonin regulation in autistic people of all ages may also be impaired. Because of this they may also have more problems falling or staying asleep. Those researchers have suggested that those individuals may benefit from taking melatonin supplements.

 

Updated
16 Jun 2022
Last Review
01 Nov 2017
Next Review
01 Apr 2024