Archive · 29 Jan 2026
Long-Term Melatonin Use Linked to Heart Failure Risk
Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep.
Many people take melatonin supplements to help with sleep problems.
A big study found that people who took melatonin for a year or more had a higher chance of heart problems, like heart failure, and were more likely to be hospitalized for it.
They also had a higher chance of dying from any cause.
While melatonin can help with sleep, it's important to use it carefully and talk to a doctor, especially if you plan to use it for a long time.
Other side effects can include feeling sleepy during the day, changes in mood, and problems with other medicines.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Long-term melatonin use is linked to a 90% higher risk of heart failure and double the risk of all-cause mortality over 5 years.
Users had a 3.5 times greater likelihood of being hospitalized for heart failure compared to non-users.
Other side effects include daytime drowsiness, hormonal effects, mood changes, and interactions with medications.
Melatonin can benefit sleep quality, regulate circadian rhythm, and has potential antioxidant properties.
Experts recommend consulting a doctor before use, starting with a low dose, and avoiding long-term use without guidance.
- Who
- Adults with chronic insomnia using melatonin supplements
- What
- Increased risk of heart failure and other side effects from long-term melatonin use
- When
- Over a 5-year period
- Where
- Study presented at the American Heart Association's (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2025
- Why
- To understand the long-term effects of melatonin use on heart health
- Study Duration
- 5 years
- Sample Size
- Over 130,000 adults
- Increased Heart Failure Risk
- 90% higher
- Hospitalisation for Heart Failure
- 3.5 times greater likelihood
- All-Cause Mortality Risk
- Double the risk