Journal of intensive care medicine
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J Intensive Care Med · Aug 2016
ReviewEmerging Role of Melatonin and Melatonin Receptor Agonists in Sleep and Delirium in Intensive Care Unit Patients.
Delirium, an acute state of mental confusion, can lead to many adverse sequelae in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Although the etiology of ICU delirium is often multifactorial, and at times not fully understood, sleep deprivation is considered to be a major contributing factor to its development. ⋯ Although few studies evaluating the impact of melatonergic agents on sleep and delirium in the ICU have been completed, some data suggest their potential positive effects on sleep and delirium. However, large-scale randomized controlled trials are warranted to determine the optimal role of melatonergic agents in the prevention of ICU delirium.