Health experts are urging caution after recent reports linked melatonin supplements to heart failure. A preliminary study presented at an American Heart Association meeting suggested that people with insomnia who used melatonin long-term showed higher rates of heart failure compared to those who did not use the supplement. However, doctors emphasize this observational research cannot prove melatonin directly causes heart problems. The study tracked patients over five years using electronic health records, but it had significant limitations, including missing dosage information and potential underreporting of supplement use in countries where melatonin is available without prescription. Experts stress that patients should not stop taking melatonin without consulting their doctors. While melatonin is generally recommended for short-term use like jet lag, there is no strong evidence supporting or warning against indefinite use. Better sleep practices remain crucial for heart health.
Study Findings and Expert Concerns
The research used international electronic health records to track adults diagnosed with insomnia who had melatonin prescriptions suggesting at least one year of use. Over five years, 4.6% of chronic melatonin users developed heart failure compared to 2.7% of insomnia patients with no recorded melatonin use. However, the study has not undergone peer review and has major limitations. It did not show dosages, and in countries like the United States where melatonin is available over-the-counter, many users may not have their supplement use recorded in medical charts. Cardiologists stress this observational study cannot prove melatonin causes heart problems rather than the underlying insomnia itself. Better sleep hygiene practices, such as avoiding blue light at night, remain important for cardiovascular health.
Source: Link