Melatonin vs. midazolam premedication in children: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Abstract

Melatonin was not only as effective as midazolam in alleviating preoperative anxiety in children, but it was also associated with a tendency towards faster recovery, lower incidence of excitement postoperatively and a lower incidence of sleep disturbance at week 2 postoperatively.

Oral melatonin, dexmedetomidine, and midazolam for prevention of postoperative agitation in children

“…Naguib and Samarkandi [32] found that melatonin (0.5 mg/kg) was associated with preoperative anxiolysis and sedation without impairment of cognitive and psychomotor skills or affecting the quality of recovery. Samarkandi et al [35] reported that 0.25 and 0.5 mg/kg melatonin was not only as effective as midazolam in alleviating preoperative anxiety in children but also associated with a tendency toward faster recovery and lower incidence of excitement postoperatively. Caumo et al [36] reported that patients treated with melatonin preoperatively had a significant decrease in pain and anxiety at all time points assessed during the first 36 h after surgery.…”

Sevoflurane-emergence agitation: effect of supplementary low-dose oral ketamine premedication in preschool children undergoing dental surgery

“…29 Melatonin demonstrated beneficial results in children in attenuating emergence agitation following sevoflurane anaesthesia. 30 One of the limitations of the current study is the absence of a placebo-controlled group. It was initially suggested but rejected by the Hospital Ethics Committee.…”

Melatonin utility in neonates and children

“…88 In the context of pediatric surgery, two clinical trials involving children reported that melatonin was as effective as midazolam in reducing preoperative anxiety. 89,90 In addition, melatonin was associated with a more rapid recovery, a reduced incidence of postoperative delirium, and a lower incidence of sleep disturbances 2 weeks after surgery when compared with midazolam.…”