Melatonin Use Linked to Increased Heart Failure Risk
A recent study presented at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2025 highlights significant risks associated with long-term melatonin use in adults suffering from insomnia.
Key Findings
- Adults using melatonin for at least one year had a 90% higher chance of developing heart failure compared to non-users.
- These individuals were nearly 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized due to heart failure.
- They also faced a higher risk of dying from any cause within five years.
Study Details
Researchers analyzed health records of over 130,000 adults with insomnia and no prior heart failure history. They compared those who used melatonin long term with those who never used it.
Adults with insomnia who took melatonin for at least a year had a much higher chance of developing heart failure.
In the UK, where melatonin is prescription-only, individuals with at least two prescriptions filled 90 days apart still showed an 82% increased risk of heart failure.
Melatonin Usage in the US
Melatonin is one of the most popular over-the-counter sleep aids in the United States. Nearly six million Americans use it to fall asleep more quickly or to extend sleep duration.
Compared with similar adults who did not use melatonin, they also have a much greater chance of being hospitalized or dying from any cause over the next five years.
Implications
This study warns that prolonged melatonin use may carry substantial cardiovascular risks, particularly for adults with insomnia.
Author’s summary: Long-term melatonin intake in adults with insomnia significantly raises their risk of heart failure and mortality, urging cautious use of this common sleep supplement.