New Study Links Melatonin and Heart Failure
A recent study examining health records of tens of thousands of adults with chronic insomnia found that individuals prescribed melatonin for over a year had an increased risk of heart failure within five years compared to nonusers, according to the American Heart Association.
Key Findings
- People using melatonin were more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure.
- Melatonin users also showed a higher risk of death from any cause than those not taking the supplement.
Expert Reactions
Sleep medicine specialists and cardiologists have expressed cautious responses to the findings, emphasizing that the study has not yet been peer reviewed.
Experts urge the public and healthcare providers not to panic and recommend further research into long-term melatonin use.
The preliminary results, which seem to conflict with earlier studies suggesting melatonin may benefit people with heart failure, come from a research abstract to be presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions, a prominent cardiovascular conference.
Additional Notes
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Summary
This emerging evidence linking long-term melatonin use with heart failure calls for cautious interpretation and further scientific validation before changing current clinical practices.