04/11/2025
Long-Term Melatonin Use Linked to Heart Failure Risk
Preliminary research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2025 suggests that long-term use (a year or more) of the sleep supplement melatonin may have negative effects on heart health. The study focused on adults with chronic insomnia.
Increased Risks Observed
The analysis of electronic health records found that chronic insomnia patients using melatonin long-term had a 90% higher chance of an incident heart failure diagnosis over five years compared to matched non-users (4.6% vs. 2.7%).
Additionally, those taking melatonin were nearly 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure and nearly twice as likely to die from any cause during the five-year period. Researchers emphasize the need for caution, as long-term cardiovascular safety data for the widely available over-the-counter supplement are currently lacking.
