A 14-year-old boy (HB) was taken to the emergency room after eating 180 gummy melatonins, which his mother (Karen) had secretly switched with his candy. Karen was frustrated with her son's loud behavior and thought the melatonin would calm him down. However, HB became disoriented and somnolent, and was rushed to the hospital.
Upon examination, doctors found that HB had hypermelatone anemia, a condition where excessive melatonin levels cause drowsiness and confusion. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep and is naturally produced in the body in response to darkness. Taking excessive amounts can disrupt the body's natural balance and cause problems.
Fortunately, HB made a full recovery, but the incident highlights the potential dangers of giving children melatonin supplements without proper medical supervision. The case also raises concerns about the increasing number of pediatric melatonin ingestions reported to poison centers and the potential long-term effects of taking high doses of melatonin.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. A 14-year-old boy named HB ate 180 gummy melatonins.
2. HB was taken to the emergency room after his mother found him face down in the living room.
3. HB's mother, Karen, had replaced his gummy candies with gummy melatonins in an attempt to calm him down.
4. HB was confused and disoriented when he arrived at the emergency room.
5. Doctors noticed that HB was somnolent, meaning he was drowsy and sleepy.
6. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep and wakefulness.
7. The pineal gland in the brain produces melatonin in response to darkness.
8. Melatonin is also available as a dietary supplement in the form of gummy candies.
9. Eating large amounts of melatonin can cause drowsiness, confusion, and disorientation.
10. HB's case is not unique, and there have been reports of children ingesting large amounts of melatonin.
11. The number of pediatric melatonin ingestions has increased significantly between 2012 and 2021.
12. At least two children have died in the hospital after ingesting large amounts of melatonin.
13. Melatonin is metabolized by the liver, and taking large amounts can interact with other medications.
14. Different people react to melatonin differently, and some may experience adverse effects.
15. HB was counseled by doctors that he may experience disturbed sleep patterns and circadian rhythms for several days or weeks after ingesting the melatonin.
16. HB made a full recovery and did not return to the emergency room.