Possible use of melatonin for sleep and confusion in critically ill patients

Intensive care delirium is an independent risk factor for death in the ICU.

• Delirium can lead to oversedation, longer mechanical ventilation, and extended hospital stays.
• Critically ill patients often experience altered sleep patterns and abnormal melatonin levels.
• Loss of circadian rhythms is common among patients in intensive care.
• Melatonin plays a significant role in regulating sleep and circadian rhythms.
• Current evidence does not support clear recommendations for melatonin use in ICU patients.
• Further well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate melatonin's role in this context.

Simplified