Accidental Melatonin Ingestions by Children

A new analysis published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that accidental ingestion of melatonin gummies by young children who often mistake them for candy was responsible for thousands of emergency department visits between 2019 and 2022. "The good news is that a melatonin overdose is not known to be fatal," said Todd Zimmerman, D.O., a pediatric emergency medicine physician and medical director at Pediatrix® Emergency Medicine of Nevada. "That being said, assess your child,” said Dr. Zimmerman. “How do they look? How are they acting? Ultimately, if you see something that is just not right—or as I say, as a parent, if your Spidey Senses are tingling and you feel something is wrong—call 911." To prevent accidental ingestions, Dr. Zimmerman suggested keeping medications and supplements in a locked area or cabinet that isn't accessible by kids. "Another interesting idea is to store all medications, vitamins and supplements in a tool box or tackle box where it is easy to apply a lock."

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