Melatonin Use Linked to Increased Heart Failure Risk
A recent study indicates that adults with insomnia who use melatonin supplements for a long time face a significantly higher risk of heart failure.
Study Findings on Melatonin and Heart Health
- Long-term melatonin use raises the chance of developing heart failure by 90% in adults with insomnia.
- These individuals are nearly 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure compared to those who do not use melatonin.
- They also have a higher likelihood of dying from any cause within five years.
- The research analyzed health records from over 130,000 adults with insomnia and no prior heart failure diagnosis.
- People using melatonin for at least one year were compared with nonusers.
Prescription Melatonin Use in the UK
In the United Kingdom, melatonin is prescription-only. Adults who filled at least two prescriptions spaced 90 days apart still showed an 82% increased risk of heart failure.
"Adults with insomnia who took melatonin for at least a year had a much higher chance of developing heart failure, according to researchers."
"Compared with similar adults who did not use melatonin, they also have a much greater chance of being hospitalized for it or dying from any cause over the next five years."
Prevalence of Melatonin Use
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 extend sleep duration.
Presentation and Publication
The study was presented during the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions in 2025, highlighting important cardiovascular risks associated with prolonged melatonin use.
Summary: Long-term melatonin use in adults with insomnia significantly elevates the risk of heart failure and related hospitalizations, urging caution in its extended use.