Long-Term Melatonin Use Linked to Increased Cardiovascular Risks
A new study analyzing the medical records of over 130,000 individuals with sleep difficulties suggests a potential link between long-term melatonin supplementation and increased risk of heart failure and mortality.
Melatonin, a hormone naturally produced by the body to regulate sleep-wake cycles, is widely used as a sleep aid. While often perceived as a safe and natural remedy, recent research indicates this view may require reassessment.
Researchers compared a group of individuals who reported consistent melatonin use for at least one year with a control group showing no recorded melatonin use. Both groups experienced insomnia but were comparable in terms of age, gender, and other relevant health characteristics.
The analysis revealed a significantly higher incidence of heart failure among melatonin users. Over a five-year period, 4.6% of those taking melatonin were diagnosed with heart failure, compared to 2.7% in the non-user group - a 90% increase. Furthermore, melatonin users experienced hospitalization for heart problems 3.5 times more frequently and faced nearly double the risk of death from any cause.
It’s crucial to note that this observational study cannot definitively establish a cause-and-effect relationship. The observed correlation could indicate that melatonin itself contributes to cardiovascular issues, or that individuals with more severe insomnia are simply more likely to utilize melatonin supplements.
The study also acknowledges potential limitations. In regions where melatonin is readily available over-the-counter, usage often goes unreported in medical records. This suggests the control group may have included some melatonin users whose supplementation wasn’t documented, potentially underestimating the true risks associated with the supplement.
Given thes findings, individuals considering melatonin use, especially for extended periods, are strongly advised to consult with their healthcare provider.
Source: American Heart Association
