Effects of melatonin on sleep in adolescents

Understanding the Impact of Melatonin Use on Adolescent Functioning: A Pilot and Feasibility Trial of the Melatonin Adolescent Research Study (MARS)

NA · Loma Linda University · NCT04588233

This study is testing if giving melatonin to teenagers aged 13 to 17 who have trouble sleeping can help them sleep better and feel more alert during the day.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages13 Years to 17 Years
SexAll
SponsorLoma Linda University (other)
Locations2 sites (Loma Linda, California and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04588233 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of melatonin supplementation on sleep and daytime functioning in adolescents aged 13 to 17 who experience sleep difficulties due to behavioral issues. Utilizing a within-person, randomized cross-over design, participants will alternate between receiving melatonin and a placebo to assess changes in their sleep patterns and daytime alertness. The focus is on typically developing adolescents who are melatonin naive and do not have underlying organic sleep disorders. The study aims to provide insights into how melatonin can improve sleep quality and overall functioning in this age group.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adolescents aged 13 to 17 who self-identify as having sleep difficulties but do not have any underlying organic sleep disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with obesity, those on psychiatric medications, or individuals with a history of head injury may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a safe and effective treatment option for improving sleep quality and daytime functioning in adolescents with sleep disturbances.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with melatonin supplementation for sleep disorders, indicating that this approach is supported by existing research.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Self-identified sleep difficulties (e.g., difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or premature waking resulting in short or disrupted sleep).
* Ages 13 to 17 years old
* Able to understand, read, and write in English
* Melatonin naive

Exclusion Criteria:

* Obesity
* Use of psychiatric medication
* Drug(s), or supplements known to affect sleep
* History of head injury or concussion with loss of consciousness \>1 minute
* Daily consumption of \>1 caffeinated beverage
* Risk for any organic sleep disorder (e.g., obstructive sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome)

Where this trial is running

Loma Linda, California and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Sleep Disorders in Children, Melatonin, Sleep Disturbance, Adolescents, Daytime Functioning

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.