A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials investigated the effects of melatonin supplementation on bone mineral density, quality of life, and sleep in menopausal women.
Level 1 - systematic review of randomized trials
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
PubMed 41693954 · doi:10.3389/fnut.2026.1687221
What was done
A systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science (2015–2024) to evaluate melatonin supplementation in menopausal women. The authors assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane tool across randomized controlled trials measuring bone mineral density (BMD), sleep quality, menopausal symptoms, mood, sexual function, serum insulin, and body mass index (BMI).
What was found
Across 7 study groups comprising 497 participants, melatonin was reported to potentially increase BMD, especially at the femoral neck, based on 2 randomized trials; however, high heterogeneity prevented pooled statistical meta-analysis, and no numerical effect sizes or confidence intervals were provided in the abstract. No significant improvements were detected for sleep quality, menopausal symptoms, anxiety, depression, sexual function, BMI, or insulin levels. Adverse effect rates were comparable between intervention and control arms.
Why it matters
Melatonin is widely used as an over-the-counter sleep and wellness aid, but this synthesis suggests it may not reliably alleviate classic menopausal symptoms or sleep disruptions, while its potential benefit for postmenopausal bone density requires further validation.
Limits
The total sample size was small (497 participants across 7 groups), with only two trials evaluating BMD. High statistical and clinical heterogeneity precluded pooled quantitative analysis for bone outcomes. Many included trials utilized combination formulations rather than isolated melatonin, obscuring independent drug effects and optimal dosing.
Cited by
- supports Substantial scientific research exists on melatonin's effects in children, aging populations, and bone health.