Study
Melatonin: A Potential Aid in Preventing Delirium for Seniors
Melatonin might help reduce delirium in hospitalized seniors.
Summary
In plain language
This study looked at whether taking melatonin can help prevent delirium in seniors who are hospitalized. Delirium is a state of confusion that often affects older adults in hospitals, making recovery more challenging. Researchers found that melatonin, a natural hormone that helps regulate sleep, could potentially reduce the chances of developing delirium. While the study faced some challenges, such as early termination and a lower occurrence of delirium than expected, the findings suggest that melatonin could be a simple and safe option to discuss with your doctor if you're hospitalized.
Details
Use the full description to understand the study design, methods, and the limits of the findings.
This study was conducted in a hospital setting, focusing on patients aged 65 and older. Researchers randomly assigned seniors to receive either melatonin or a placebo to see if melatonin could prevent delirium.
- Participants took 5 mg or 8 mg of melatonin, or a placebo, each night for up to 5 days.
- Results showed a potential reduction in delirium, though the study ended early, making conclusions less certain.
- Melatonin is generally well-tolerated, but the study faced limitations like a smaller-than-planned sample size.
If you're concerned about delirium during hospital stays, consider discussing melatonin with your healthcare provider.
Full Study
Open the original publication for the complete methods, outcomes, and source material.
Melatonin: A Potential Aid in Preventing Delirium for Seniors
Published January 2026 · DOI 10.1136/bmjopen-2025-107775
Opens at the publisher · external site · may require institutional access
Research Quality Score
Scored October 22, 2026 using rubric mq-1.8_2026-07-06.
Assessment
The study scored well in design and bias control due to its rigorous RCT methodology. However, early termination affected statistical power, and no COI statement was detected, impacting transparency. The study was relevant to the target population but lacked replication and journal quality information.
Category Breakdown
| Category | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Study design | 10.0/10 | |
| Bias control | 10.0/10 | |
| Statistical methods | 7.5/10 | |
| Reporting completeness | 10.0/10 | |
| Conflicts & funding | 5.0/10 | |
| Replication | 0.0/10 | |
| Relevance to chosen population | 10.0/10 | |
| Journal Reliability | 5.0/10 |
Additional Notes
This RCT evaluated the efficacy of melatonin in preventing delirium among hospitalized patients aged 65 and older. The study found no significant reduction in delirium incidence with melatonin compared to placebo, leading to early termination due to futility.
Assessed on the study's full text across 8 quality dimensions; conflict-of-interest disclosures were reviewed.
Treatments Evaluated in This Research
Review the interventions studied here and compare them against the broader treatment library.
Sleep Wellness
Sleep Wellness is a holistic approach designed to help seniors improve their sleep quality. It combines lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, and environmental adjustments. This treatment is beneficial for older adults struggling with insomnia or poor sleep, supporting overall health and vitality.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the sleep–wake cycle. Supplemental melatonin supports better sleep quality and helps older adults maintain consistent rest patterns.
Melatonin Complex (with L-Theanine + Magnesium)
This combination of melatonin, L-theanine, and magnesium promotes relaxation, stress relief, and high-quality restorative sleep.
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