• Suitable for 0-6Years

Pills, potions and tonics for sleep

By Raising Children Network
 
 

Drugs aren’t usually the answer to solving children’s sleeping problems. There are better ways to deal with your child’s sleep difficulties.

It can be very dangerous to give children drugs not specifically prescribed for them:

  • Drugs can have bad side effects.
  • Children on medication can be grumpy, irritable and hard to wake up in the morning.
  • Medication might make children dizzy, have dry mouths or feel sick.

People might advise you to give your child potions or tonics to help with settling and sleep. Some might even suggest a drop of brandy in the bedtime bottle. This is unlikely to work, because food and drink rarely have anything to do with a child’s sleeping problems. Potions, tonics and alcohol can also be dangerous.

In rare circumstances where all else has failed, your doctor might prescribe medication for a short period to help your child get into a sleep pattern.

Melatonin is one such medication. It might be helpful for older children with chronic insomnia. Like any medication, melatonin should not be given to a child without medical advice and supervision. An incorrect dosage could be dangerous.

Medication will help in the longer term only if it is accompanied by a strategy to help your child learn new sleep behaviour. You could start by reading our article on promoting positive bedtime routines.
 
 
 
  • Last updated23-02-2010
  • Last reviewed12-08-2009
References

  • France, K.G. & Hudson, S.M. (1993). Management of infant sleep disturbance: A review. Clinical Psychology Review, 13, 635-647.

    Mindell, J.A. (1999). Empirically supported treatments in pediatric psychology: Bedtime refusal and night wakings in young children. Journal of Pediatric Psychology, 24, 465-481.

    Peirano, P., Algarin, C. & Uauy, R. (2003). Sleep-wake states and their regulatory mechanisms throughout early development. The Journal of Pediatrics, 143, 870-879.

    Ramchandani, P., & Wiggs, L. (2000). A systematic review of treatment of settling problems and night waking in young children. British Medical Journal, 320, 209-213.