Melatonin Use Linked to Increased Heart Failure Risk
A recent study indicates that adults with insomnia who use melatonin for long periods face a significantly higher risk of developing heart failure. Compared to those who do not use melatonin, these individuals are also more likely to be hospitalized or die within five years.
Study Overview and Findings
Melatonin is one of the most popular over-the-counter sleep aids in the United States, with nearly six million Americans using it to fall asleep faster or stay asleep longer. However, new research presented at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2025 suggests that prolonged use could pose serious health risks.
Researchers analyzed health records from over 130,000 adults diagnosed with insomnia but without previous heart failure. They compared those who had used melatonin continuously for at least a year to those who never used it.
Key Results
- Long-term melatonin users had approximately a 90% higher risk of developing heart failure within five years.
- These users were nearly 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized due to heart failure compared with nonusers.
- In the United Kingdom, where melatonin is prescription-only, patients with at least two prescriptions filled 90 days apart showed an 82% higher risk of heart failure.
- Long-term melatonin users also faced a significantly greater likelihood of dying from any cause within five years.
"Adults with insomnia who took melatonin for at least a year had a much higher chance of developing heart failure," stated the researchers.
Implications
The findings raise concerns about the safety of prolonged melatonin supplementation, especially for individuals with insomnia. Healthcare providers and patients should be aware of these potential risks when considering melatonin as a sleep aid for extended periods.
Author's Summary
This study highlights a possible link between long-term melatonin use and significantly increased heart failure risk and mortality, calling for careful evaluation of its prolonged use in insomnia treatment.
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