New Study Links Long-Term Melatonin Use with Increased Heart Failure Risk
A recent study has found that adults with insomnia who use melatonin for extended periods face a significantly higher risk of developing heart failure. Compared to non-users, these individuals are also more likely to be hospitalized or die within five years.
Melatonin Usage and Heart Health Risks
Melatonin is a popular over-the-counter sleep aid in the United States, relied upon by nearly six million Americans to improve sleep quality. However, findings presented at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2025 highlight potential dangers of prolonged use.
Study Details and Findings
- Researchers analyzed health data from over 130,000 adults with insomnia who had no prior heart failure diagnosis.
- Participants who used melatonin for at least one year were compared with those who never took the supplement.
- Long-term melatonin users showed about a 90% higher risk of developing heart failure within five years.
- They were nearly 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized due to heart failure compared to non-users.
International Prescription Practices
In the United Kingdom, melatonin is available only by prescription. Adults who filled at least two prescriptions spaced 90 days apart still exhibited an 82% increased risk of heart failure.
"Adults with insomnia who took melatonin for at least a year had a much higher chance of developing heart failure, according to researchers."
"Compared with similar adults who did not use melatonin, they also have a much greater chance of being hospitalized for it or dying from any cause over the next five years."
These results call for caution regarding prolonged melatonin use, especially for those managing insomnia.
Author's Summary
Long-term melatonin use in adults with insomnia may drastically increase heart failure risk, leading to higher hospitalization and mortality rates within five years.