Melatonin lotion's effects on sleep and mental health
Official title: The Impact of Melatonin Lotion on Actigraphy, Sleep Quality, Autonomic Nervous System Indicators, Mood, Anxiety Symptoms, and Side Effects
Run by University of Redlands · NCT06768749 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if using melatonin lotion can help young adults with sleep issues, depression, and anxiety feel better and sleep more soundly.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 21 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Redlands Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Redlands, California) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 28, 2025 |
| Main results expected | April 1, 2028 |
| Study ends | April 1, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | May 1, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06768749 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are young adults with sleep disturbances and mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety or depression.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients currently using antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or sleep medications, including melatonin, may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study examines how melatonin lotion affects sleep quality and mental health in young adults experiencing sleep problems, depression, and anxiety. Participants will use melatonin lotion and a placebo lotion in a randomized crossover design, applying the lotion before bedtime for one week each. Throughout the study, they will wear devices to monitor sleep and heart rate, complete mood assessments, and provide saliva samples. The goal is to determine the effectiveness of melatonin lotion in improving sleep and mental health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a novel topical treatment option for improving sleep quality and alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety.
How similar studies have gone: While topical melatonin treatments are less common, other studies have shown positive effects of melatonin on sleep and mental health, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * a T score ≥ 48 on the sleep disturbance short form Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) measure, and * a T score ≥ 55 on the anxiety or depression short form PROMIS measures (mild symptoms or more) Exclusion Criteria: * currently using antidepressant, anti-anxiety, or sleep medication including melatonin * are pregnant * have allergies/sensitivities to scented lotion * are unwilling to commit to keeping a similar bedtime (± 1 hour) during treatment weeks.
Where it's running
-
University of Redlands
Redlands, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Lisa E Olson, Ph.D. — University of Redlands
- Study coordinator: Lisa E Olson, Ph.D.
- Email: lisa_olson@redlands.edu
- Phone: 909-748-8524
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.