Melatonin as a Noble approach for un-cooperative child –An observational study

Objectives: Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone. It is secreted from the pineal gland in the human body. It is also used for preoperative anxiolysis and sedation. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the before and after effects of melatonin medication on sedation, anxiety, and cognitive and psychomotor functions before and after dental procedures. Materials and Methods: A total of 45 patients aged between 4 and 8 years scheduled to undergo dental treatment were randomly assigned for medication administration to evaluate changes in behavior, anxiety, orientation, and sedation scale between pre- and post-medication. Data were analyzed using a paired t- test and Wilcoxon test, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Cognitive scores and anxiety scores were decreased significantly, and sedation scores were increased significantly after 60 min of melatonin medication. There were significant differences in trail-making test scores between premedication and 60 min after melatonin medication. Conclusion: Thus, it can be used as a potent premedication drug in children as an anti-anxiety drug.