Full Breakdown
Long-Term Melatonin Use Linked to Increased Heart Failure Risk
11/9/2025, 10:46:38 AM
Study Overview and Findings
A recent study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2025 has raised concerns regarding the long-term use of melatonin supplements, commonly used to treat insomnia. Researchers analyzed health records from over 130,000 adults diagnosed with insomnia, comparing those who took melatonin for at least one year with those who did not. The findings indicated that long-term melatonin users had a 90% higher likelihood of developing heart failure over a five-year period. Specifically, 4.6% of melatonin users developed heart failure compared to 2.7% of non-users. Additionally, melatonin users were 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure and nearly twice as likely to die from any cause during the study period.
Implications of the Findings
Lead researcher Dr. Ekenedilichukwu Nnadi from SUNY Downstate/Kings County Primary Care emphasized that these results could significantly influence how healthcare providers counsel patients regarding sleep aids. The study suggests that while melatonin is often perceived as a safe supplement, its long-term effects may pose serious health risks.
Criticism and Limitations
Despite the alarming statistics, experts caution against jumping to conclusions. The study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between melatonin use and heart failure; it merely identifies an association. Dr. Nancy Collop, director of Emory University’s sleep center, noted that the study's retrospective nature and reliance on medical records introduce limitations, such as the inability to assess the severity of insomnia or the potential influence of other medications. Furthermore, the study did not account for over-the-counter melatonin use, which could skew the results.
Official Statements and Expert Opinions
Marie-Pierre St-Onge, director of the Center of Excellence for Sleep & Circadian Research at Columbia University, stated that chronic melatonin use should not be undertaken without proper medical guidance. Dr. Fady Hannah-Shmouni, Medical Director at Eli Health, echoed this sentiment, advising that while the findings are concerning, they should not incite panic as they reflect correlation rather than causation.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
There is a notable gap in understanding the long-term safety of melatonin, particularly as its use has surged in recent years. A 2022 Sleep Foundation survey indicated that 27% of U.S. adults and 4% of children use melatonin, raising questions about the implications of widespread consumption without comprehensive safety data.
What's Next?
The study's findings underscore the need for further research to clarify the safety profile of melatonin, particularly for long-term users. Experts recommend that individuals considering melatonin for sleep issues consult with healthcare providers to explore alternative treatments and ensure safe usage.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Melatonin supplements may not be as harmless as commonly assumed,” — Dr. Ekenedilichukwu Nnadi, Lead Researcher
- “People should be aware that [melatonin] should not be taken chronically without a proper indication.” — Dr. Marie-Pierre St-Onge, Columbia University
