A study suggests that long-term use of melatonin may increase the risk of heart failure, hospitalization, and death in individuals with chronic insomnia.

A recent study, which will be presented at the Scientific Session of the American Heart Association, analyzed data from over 130,000 adults with chronic insomnia who used melatonin for at least one year. The results suggest that they have a 90% higher risk of developing heart failure compared to those who do not use the supplement.

Additionally, melatonin users had a hospitalization risk for heart failure nearly 3.5 times higher and a double risk of death from any cause. The author of the study, Dr. Ekenedilichukwu Nnadi, emphasizes the need to reevaluate recommendations regarding melatonin for patients with sleep disorders.

Although melatonin is considered a natural remedy, evidence regarding its long-term cardiovascular safety is insufficient. The study has limitations, including a lack of data on the severity of insomnia and other mental health conditions, and the results indicate only an association, not a causal relationship. Further research is needed to assess the long-term effects of melatonin on heart health.