Protocol · Sleep Disorders/Pediatrics
Sleep Terrors (Night Terrors) Support Protocol
Magnesium is the core of this stack, with 3 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Sleep Terrors (Night Terrors) Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
4 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| Magnesium | Amount listed: Children: 3–6 mg/kg; Adults: 300–400 mg at bedtime | Supports nervous system relaxation and sleep quality | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Vitamin D | Amount listed: Age-appropriate: 600–2,000 IU daily | Deficiency linked to sleep disturbances in children | Not graded yet | |
| Melatonin | Amount listed: Children: 0.5–3 mg; Adults: 1–5 mg at bedtime (consult pediatrician for children) | May help regulate sleep architecture; used cautiously in children | Not graded yet | |
| L-Theanine | Amount listed: 100–200 mg at bedtime | Promotes relaxation without sedation; may improve sleep quality | Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
Sleep terrors (night terrors) are episodes of screaming, intense fear, and thrashing during sleep. They're most common in children and usually outgrown by adolescence.
KEY FEATURES:
- Usually occur in first third of night (non-REM sleep)
- Child appears terrified but is not fully awake
- Hard to console during episode
- No memory of the episode afterward
- Different from nightmares (which occur in REM sleep and are remembered)
COMMON IN:
- Children ages 3-12 (peak 3-7 years)
- Often runs in families
- Usually outgrown by adolescence
TRIGGERS:
- Sleep deprivation (most common)
- Illness/fever
- Stress
- Sleeping in unfamiliar place
- Sleep-disordered breathing
- Full bladder
MANAGEMENT:
- Keep child safe during episode
- Don't try to wake them (can prolong episode)
- Ensure adequate sleep (most important)
- Regular sleep schedule
- Scheduled awakenings for frequent episodes
- Address sleep apnea if present
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR:
- Very frequent episodes
- Episodes continue into adulthood
- Concern for seizures
- Associated sleepwalking with safety concerns
Adequate sleep* is most important intervention.
Magnesium* may support sleep quality.
Most children outgrow* sleep terrors.
Expected timeline: Most children outgrow sleep terrors by adolescence. Ensuring adequate sleep often reduces frequency within weeks.