A recent study has raised concerns about the long-term use of melatonin, a popular sleep aid. Researchers found an association between chronic melatonin consumption and a higher risk of heart failure, hospitalization for the condition, and even early death. While the study does not prove causation, experts advise caution and recommend discussing supplement use with a healthcare provider.
Key Takeaways
- Long-term use of melatonin supplements may be associated with an increased risk of heart failure.
- Individuals using melatonin for over a year showed a higher likelihood of developing heart failure and being hospitalized for it.
- Experts emphasize that the need for long-term melatonin use could signal underlying cardiac issues.
Study Findings
New research, which analyzed electronic health records of over 130,000 adults, suggests that individuals who regularly took melatonin for at least a year were nearly twice as likely to develop heart failure compared to non-users. The actual rates were relatively low, with 4.6% of melatonin users developing heart failure versus 2.7% of those who did not use the supplement. However, the study also indicated that long-term melatonin users were more than three times as likely to be hospitalized for heart failure and nearly twice as likely to die during the study period.
It is important to note that the study did not find evidence that melatonin supplements directly cause heart problems. Instead, researchers propose that the need to take melatonin regularly might be an indicator of existing cardiac issues. Insomnia itself can contribute to increased blood pressure, stress hormones, and inflammation, which are risk factors for heart disease.
Expert Advice and Limitations
Experts are urging caution and calling for further investigation into the potential effects of long-term melatonin use. While the study’s findings are observational and have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal, they highlight a potential area of concern. The over-the-counter availability and varying purity of melatonin supplements in the U.S. add another layer of complexity.
Healthcare professionals recommend that individuals using melatonin for sleep for more than a year should consult with their doctor. They emphasize that supplements should not be taken chronically without a proper medical indication. The study did not include children, and its findings are based on data that may not fully capture all long-term melatonin users in the U.S., as supplement use is not always reflected in medical records.
Understanding Melatonin and Heart Failure
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Synthetic versions are widely sold as dietary supplements to aid sleep. Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body’s organs. While the study points to a correlation, further research is needed to understand the precise relationship between melatonin supplements and cardiovascular health.
Sources
- New study links melatonin and heart failure. Don’t panic, experts say., The Washington Post.
- What taking melatonin could reveal about your heart health, NBC News.
- Long-Term Melatonin Might Harm Heart Health, Study Says, HealthDay.