Melatonin and higher risk of developing heart disease

A new analysis has raised concerns about the long-term use of melatonin, a common supplement for insomnia. According to a study presented during the American Heart Association’s scientific sessions, adults who were prescribed melatonin for more than a year showed a significantly higher risk of developing heart disease.

The study, which included over 130,000 adults across multiple countries, found that long-term melatonin users had an 89% higher risk of heart failure over five years and were approximately 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure compared to those who did not take the supplement.

The risk of death from any cause also rose from 4.3% to 7.8% in the group using melatonin long-term.

Researchers emphasized that these are preliminary findings and do not prove that melatonin directly causes heart problems. Short-term use of melatonin, typically for one to two months, remains considered safe for most adults, including non-pregnant and non-breastfeeding women.

However, experts, including Ekenedilekoko Nadi of New York State University, warned that the growing popularity of melatonin makes further research into its long-term safety essential.

Melatonin supplements mimic a natural hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and are widely available over the counter in the U.S. and other countries, allowing people to use them without medical supervision.