Chronic Melatonin Use May Raise Risk of Heart Failure, Study Suggests
A new study indicates that using melatonin for over a year may increase the risk of heart failure and premature death. Melatonin is widely used as a sleep aid, but its long-term effects remain unclear.
Study Overview
Researchers analyzed medical records of individuals with chronic insomnia. Those who took melatonin for at least one year showed a higher likelihood of developing heart failure and had increased mortality rates.
Findings and Implications
“These findings challenge the perception of melatonin as a benign chronic therapy and underscore the need for randomized trials to clarify its cardiovascular safety profile,” the researchers wrote.
While the study has limitations, it highlights the necessity of further investigation into melatonin’s potential cardiovascular risks.
Melatonin’s Role and Usage
The human body naturally produces melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Synthetic melatonin is approved in some countries, such as the U.K., for treating insomnia in adults over 55. In the U.S., it is available as an over-the-counter supplement.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Use
Short-term use of melatonin—such as for recovery from jet lag—appears to be generally safe for adults, though not necessarily for children. However, the new evidence suggests that long-term use may pose health risks that warrant caution.
Author’s summary: Long-term melatonin use, though common, may carry hidden heart risks, urging caution and further research into its safety for extended use.