What is the link between prolonged melatonin use and an increased risk of heart failure?

A large preliminary study has revealed that individuals suffering from chronic insomnia who use melatonin over the long term face a roughly 90 percent higher risk of developing heart failure over a five-year period. Researchers noted that the findings do not prove that melatonin causes heart problems, but they raise new questions about the safety of taking this common sleep supplement for extended periods.

The study, published in ScienceDaily, explained that while melatonin is widely used as a sleep aid, its long-term effects remain not fully understood. Researchers emphasized that these preliminary results require further research to confirm the relationship between prolonged melatonin use and the risk of heart failure.

The study reported that individuals with chronic insomnia are the group most likely to use melatonin, making them the focus of this research. However, researchers stressed that the findings do not imply that melatonin directly causes heart failure, but rather indicate a statistical association that warrants further investigation.

Key points highlighted by the study include:

• A 90 percent higher risk of heart failure among long-term melatonin users who suffer from chronic insomnia.

Researchers emphasized that these preliminary findings raise important questions about the safety of melatonin, calling for caution when using it for extended periods, particularly among patients with chronic insomnia.