The Use of Melatonin for Delirium Prevention in Medically Hospitalized Patients

The high prevalence of delirium in hospitalized older adults, with significant associated morbidity and mortality, emphasize the need for effective prevention strategies. Limited trials have explored melatonin's potential in preventing delirium among patients admitted to general medical wards. Previous trials on melatonin's preventive role in medical wards had limitations, necessitating a robust, double-blinded, placebo-controlled design with a larger sample size. This randomized, double-blind study of melatonin versus placebo aims to investigate the efficacy of melatonin, a neurohormone regulating the sleep-wake cycle, in preventing delirium among medically hospitalized patients aged 65 or older. Given the high prevalence of delirium in this population and its association with adverse outcomes, the study seeks to contribute valuable insights into an effective preventive strategy.