New Study Links Long-Term Melatonin Use to Increased Heart Failure Risk
A recent study highlights a significant health concern for adults with insomnia who use melatonin over an extended period. Findings suggest that long-term melatonin use may raise the risk of developing heart failure by 90%.
Study Details and Key Findings
The research, presented at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2025, analyzed health records from over 130,000 adults suffering from insomnia without prior heart failure. It compared those who used melatonin for more than a year to those who never used it.
- Adults with insomnia using melatonin long-term were nearly twice as likely to develop heart failure within five years.
- These users were also approximately 3.5 times more likely to require hospitalization for heart failure.
- The study observed an increased risk of death from any cause during the five-year period among melatonin users.
Regional Prescription Practices
In the United Kingdom, melatonin is regulated and only available by prescription. Even among those who had at least two prescriptions filled 90 days apart, the risk of heart failure remained elevated by 82%.
"Adults with insomnia who took melatonin for at least a year had a much higher chance of developing heart failure," said the researchers.
Prevalence of Melatonin Use
In the United States, melatonin is one of the most widely used over-the-counter supplements, with nearly six million Americans relying on it to improve sleep duration or speed up falling asleep.
Implications for Sleep Supplement Users
This study raises important concerns for anyone taking melatonin regularly, suggesting the need for caution and medical guidance regarding long-term use.
"Compared with similar adults who did not use melatonin, long-term users have a much greater chance of being hospitalized for heart failure or dying within five years," researchers emphasized.
Summary: Long-term melatonin use in adults with insomnia significantly increases their risk of heart failure, hospitalization, and death over five years, urging careful consideration of this common sleep aid.