Taking Melatonin Every Night May Nearly Double Heart Failure Risk
A recent study linked long-term melatonin supplement use in adults with chronic insomnia to a significantly higher risk of heart failure and early death. Melatonin is widely used in the United States, with around six million Americans taking it to fall asleep faster or stay asleep longer.
Researchers analyzed health records of over 130,000 adults with insomnia and no prior heart failure diagnosis from a large international database. They compared those using melatonin for at least one year with similar individuals who never used the supplement.
- Adults using melatonin long-term had a greater chance of developing or being hospitalized for heart failure within five years.
- They also faced a higher risk of death from any cause compared to non-users.
“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.
The study's findings suggest a need to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of melatonin use in patient discussions, pending confirmation from further research.
Author's Summary
Long-term nightly use of melatonin in adults with insomnia may increase heart failure and mortality risk, highlighting a need for cautious medical advice on this common supplement.