The Role of Supplements and Over-the-Counter Products to Improve Sleep in Children: A Systematic Review

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#adolescent #humans #child #sleep #sleep-initiation-and-maintenance-disorders

The Role of Supplements and Over-the-Counter Products to Improve Sleep in Children: A Systematic Review

Innocenti et al., 2023 | Int J Mol Sci | Systematic Review

Citation

Innocenti Alice, Lentini Giuliana, ... Bruni Oliviero. The Role of Supplements and Over-the-Counter Products to Improve Sleep in Children: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci. 2023-Apr-25;24(9). doi:10.3390/ijms24097821

Abstract

The sleep-wake cycle is a complex multifactorial process involving several neurotransmitters, including acetylcholine, norepinephrine, serotonin, histamine, dopamine, orexin and GABA, that can be, in turn, regulated by different nutrients involved in their metabolic pathways. Although good sleep quality in children has been proven to be a key factor for optimal cognitive, physical and psychological development, a significant and ever-increasing percentage of the pediatric population suffers from sleep disorders. In children, behavioral interventions along with supplements are recommended as the first line treatment. This systematic review was conducted, according to the PRISMA guidelines, with the purpose of assessing the principal nutrients involved in the pathways of sleep-regulating neurotransmitters in children and adolescents. Our focus was the utilization of over the counter (OTC) products, specifically iron, hydroxytryptophan, theanine and antihistamines in the management of different pediatric sleep disorders with the intention of providing a practical guide for the clinician.

Key Findings

Our focus was the utilization of over the counter (OTC) products, specifically iron, hydroxytryptophan, theanine and antihistamines in the management of different pediatric sleep disorders with the intention of providing a practical guide for the clinician.

Outcomes Measured

  • sleep quality

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition sleep

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Humans
  • Child
  • Sleep
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders
  • Histamine
  • Histamine Antagonists
  • Neurotransmitter Agents
  • Sleep Wake Disorders

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Systematic Review, Journal Article
  • Vertical: l-theanine

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09