Long-Term Melatonin Use Linked to Increased Heart Failure Risk
A recent study examined adults with chronic insomnia and discovered that long-term use of melatonin supplements is associated with a higher risk of heart failure and premature death.
Popularity of Melatonin in the United States
Melatonin is among the most widely used over-the-counter sleep aids in the U.S., with about six million people taking it to fall asleep faster or improve sleep duration.
Study Findings on Melatonin and Heart Health
Researchers observed that adults with insomnia who took melatonin for over a year were significantly more likely to develop heart failure, require hospitalization for it, or die from any cause within five years compared to those who never used melatonin.
“Melatonin supplements may not be as harmless as commonly assumed,” said Ekenedilichukwu Nnadi, MD, chief resident in internal medicine at Kings County Hospital and Downstate Health Sciences University in Brooklyn, New York.
If corroborated by further research, these results could influence how doctors discuss the risks and benefits of melatonin with their patients.
Study Methodology
The researchers analyzed health records from a large international database containing over 130,000 adults with insomnia but no prior heart failure diagnosis. They compared those who used melatonin for more than a year to a matched group who never used the supplement.
Author's Summary
Long-term melatonin supplementation may carry serious heart risks, highlighting the importance of cautious use and further research.