AI Insight
A large preliminary study found that people with chronic insomnia who used melatonin long-term had approximately 90% higher risk of developing heart failure over a five-year period compared to non-users. The research establishes a correlation but does not demonstrate causation, meaning it cannot confirm whether melatonin directly causes heart problems. The findings raise safety concerns about extended use of this widely available sleep supplement.
Why it matters
Melatonin is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter sleep aids, with millions of people taking it regularly without medical supervision. These findings suggest the need for further research into long-term safety and may warrant caution for chronic users, particularly those with existing cardiovascular risk factors.
Understand the Science
People with chronic insomnia who used melatonin long term had a roughly 90% higher risk of developing heart failure over five years, according to a large preliminary study. The findings do not prove melatonin causes heart problems, but they raise new questions about the safety of taking the popular sleep supplement for extended periods.
Source: Long-term melatonin use linked to 90% higher heart failure risk