Antiplatelet Effect of Melatonin through Breastfeeding: A Pediatric Case Report

Abstract

We present a pediatric case of the antiplatelet effect of melatonin taken through breast milk in an 18-month-old child. The child was referred to our hematology outpatient clinic because of bleeding episodes that she presented since birth. Blood tests excluded the presence of blood coagulation diseases. The family history was negative for bleeding disorders. The child did not consume any drugs, food supplements, herbal teas or infusions. We performed an aggregation platelet test, which showed a reduced platelet aggregation. Shortly before, the baby had been breastfed. We speculated that breast milk could interfere with the result of the test; therefore, we decided to repeat the test in a fasting state. This time the test showed a normal platelet aggregation time. We learned that the child’s mother was taking a mixture of valerian and melatonin. Thus, we decided to suspend maternal intake of melatonin and perform a new platelet aggregation test after three months. The test results were negative. After the suspension of melatonin, the patient did not present further bleeding events. In this case, melatonin, through the inhibition of platelet aggregation, had an important role on the hemostatic system of the child. Melatonin is considered as a dietary supplement and is mostly available as an alternative medicine without formal prescription and dosage regulation. It is important, especially during breastfeeding, to investigate personal and medication history, including also homeopathic remedies or dietary supplements.

Keywords

• melatonin
• breastfeeding
• platelets