Common Supplement Shows Concerning Link to Heart Failure
New research on a popular sleep aid raises concerns about its long-term use. An analysis of adults with insomnia, not yet peer-reviewed, found that those prescribed melatonin for over a year faced increased heart risks.
Study Findings on Melatonin Use
- Among more than 130,000 adults from various countries, long-term melatonin users had an 89% higher risk of heart failure over five years.
- These users were twice as likely to die from any cause compared to those who were not prescribed melatonin.
Context and Precautions
The findings are preliminary and do not currently alter health recommendations. They do not confirm that melatonin — the fourth most popular natural supplement taken by US adults — directly causes harmful effects.
"What the results do suggest is that longer-term uses of melatonin need to be studied further to ensure they are safe."
Melatonin is generally deemed safe and well-tolerated for short-term use (about 1 to 2 months) in non-pregnant, non-breastfeeding adults. Research on effects beyond this period remains limited.
Need for Further Research
The growing popularity of melatonin as a supplement calls for more studies examining its long-term safety. This new research was shared at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions.
Related Research
Another study showed that one dietary supplement can reduce aggression by up to 28%, illustrating the broad impact of supplements on health.
Author’s Summary: Emerging evidence suggests melatonin use beyond a year may increase heart failure risk, highlighting the need for comprehensive long-term safety studies.