BUFFALO, N.Y. — The popular sleep aid for adults has become even more popular for children.
Parents are giving preschoolers sleep supplements more frequently to help at bedtime though there is not a lot of data on the most used one, melatonin.
According to new research from the University of Colorado Boulder, 18% of kids between the ages five and nine are being given melatonin by parents routinely as a sleep aid.
Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain that regulates a person's sleep cycle but, the use of it is concerning because of the lack in data around its safety.
It is considered a drug in some countries but, in the U.S. it is easily available even with kid-friendly versions.
The product can be effective in sleep aid and beneficial for some children who have a hard time falling asleep.
With that being said, health officials say that parents should still consult with their pediatricians before using the supplement.