Melatonin use linked to increased heart failure risk

A preliminary study presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions suggests that long-term use of melatonin, a common supplement for insomnia, may be linked to an increased risk of heart failure.

Researchers analyzed 130,828 adults with insomnia, with an average age of 55.7 years. The study found that individuals who used melatonin for at least 12 months had approximately a 90% higher probability of developing heart failure within the following five years compared to those who did not use the supplement. Specifically, heart failure occurred in 4.6% of the melatonin-using group, compared to 2.7% in the control group.

Lead researcher Ekenedilichukwu Nnadi noted that ‘melatonin supplements might not be as harmless as is commonly believed.’ The analysis also recorded a higher frequency of deaths from other causes among those with a history of prolonged melatonin use. If these findings are confirmed, they could influence medical advice regarding sleep aids.