Long-Term Melatonin Use Linked to Increased Heart Failure Risk
A recent study involving adults with chronic insomnia found that prolonged use of melatonin supplements is associated with a higher risk of heart failure and increased mortality. Melatonin is widely used in the United States as an over-the-counter sleep aid, with approximately six million Americans taking it to help fall asleep or maintain sleep.
Study Findings
Researchers analyzed health records from a large international database, including over 130,000 adults diagnosed with insomnia but no prior history of heart failure. They compared individuals using melatonin for more than one year with those who did not use the supplement.
- Adults using melatonin long-term had a significantly higher chance of developing heart failure or requiring hospitalization for it within five years.
- The risk of death from any cause was also elevated in the melatonin group 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.
Dr. Nnadi added that if further studies replicate these findings, it could influence how doctors discuss the risks and benefits of melatonin use with their patients.
Research Background
The study aimed to clarify long-term effects of melatonin by utilizing a large dataset and accounting for confounding factors by comparing users and non-users with similar characteristics.
Implications
The results highlight the need to carefully evaluate the safety of widely accessible supplements like melatonin, especially when used consistently over long periods.
“If other studies confirm these findings, it could affect the risk-benefit discussion that doctors have with their patients about the sleep aid,” Dr. Nnadi emphasized.
Author’s summary: Long-term nightly melatonin use may significantly increase the risk of heart failure and mortality, challenging the common perception of its safety and calling for careful medical evaluation.