The Role of Supplements and Over-the-Counter Products to Improve Sleep in Children: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The sleep–wake cycle is a complex multifactorial process involving several neurotransmitters, including acetylcholine, norepinephrine, serotonin, histamine, dopamine, orexin and GABA, that can be, in turn, regulated by different nutrients involved in their metabolic pathways. Although good sleep quality in children has been proven to be a key factor for optimal cognitive, physical and psychological development, a significant and ever-increasing percentage of the pediatric population suffers from sleep disorders. In children, behavioral interventions along with supplements are recommended as the first line treatment. This systematic review was conducted, according to the PRISMA guidelines, with the purpose of assessing the principal nutrients involved in the pathways of sleep-regulating neurotransmitters in children and adolescents. Our focus was the utilization of over the counter (OTC) products, specifically iron, hydroxytryptophan, theanine and antihistamines in the management of different pediatric sleep disorders with the intention of providing a practical guide for the clinician.

Pharmacological management of pediatric insomnia

“…L-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea leaves, Camellia sinensis, and is thought to alleviate stress and improve sleep through a glutamate receptor-mediated mechanism (Lyon et al, 2011;Innocenti et al, 2023). One randomized, 10-week, doubleblind, placebo-controlled trial conducted with 98 boys, ages 8-12 years, with a diagnosis of ADHD observed improved sleep efficiency as measured by actigraphy but no change in sleep latency or duration at doses of 200 mg twice daily.…”