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 type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 4 Years to 10 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Benha University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Banhā) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 10, 2025 |
| Main results expected | May 1, 2026 |
| Study ends | August 1, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | July 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07375342 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
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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.