Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 4 to 10

Melatonin to reduce emergence agitation after tonsil removal in kids

Official title: Effect of Preoperative Oral Melatonin on Emergence Agitation Following Pediatric Tonsillectomy: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Run by Benha University · NCT07375342 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests whether giving melatonin before anesthesia can lessen emergence agitation in children after tonsillectomy, compared with a placebo.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages4 Years to 10 Years
SexAll
Enrollment120 (estimated)
SponsorBenha University
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Banhā)
StatusRecruiting
StartedDecember 10, 2025
Main results expectedMay 1, 2026
Study endsAugust 1, 2026
Registry record updatedJuly 17, 2026
Trial IDNCT07375342 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Children scheduled for tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy, ASA I–II, with guardian consent and no contraindications to melatonin.

Probably not a fit

Children with certain neurological, sleep, or hepatic/renal conditions, or those on sedatives/psychoactive meds, may not benefit.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This interventional study examines the effect of a single oral dose of melatonin (0.5 mg/kg up to 20 mg) given 30 minutes before anesthesia induction in pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy. Participants are randomized to receive either melatonin or a placebo to see if it reduces emergence agitation after anesthesia. Inclusion requires ASA I or II status and informed guardian consent; several medical and sleep-related exclusions apply. The trial is led by Benha University at Benha University Hospital with no listed collaborators.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, melatonin could reduce postoperative agitation and improve recovery after pediatric tonsil surgery.

How similar studies have gone: Prior pediatric studies and safety data informed the chosen dose, but results for this specific indication are not yet established.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I or II.
* Parent/legal guardian provides written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* • Known allergy or contraindication to melatonin.

  * Pre-existing neurological or psychiatric disorders (e.g., epilepsy, autism, ADHD).
  * Children receiving any sedative or psychoactive medication within 48 hours of surgery.
  * Emergency surgery or any procedure other than tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy.
  * Children with known sleep disorders or those taking melatonin supplements.
  * Developmental delay, neurologic disorders, sleep disorders, or known obstructive sleep apnea requiring ICU postoperatively.
  * Hepatic or renal dysfunction (ALT/AST \>2×ULN, Cr \>1.5 mg/dL)

Where it's running

  • Benha University Hospital
    Banhā, Egypt
    Recruiting

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
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Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.