A new study presented at the American Heart Association’s 2025 Scientific Sessions suggests that long-term melatonin use may be linked to a higher risk of heart failure.
The Study
Researchers analyzed medical records from more than 130,000 adults using the TriNetX Global Research Network. Participants had insomnia but no prior history of heart failure. About half reported using melatonin for at least one year, while the other half did not.
Results showed that people who took melatonin for over a year were:
- 90% more likely to develop heart failure
- 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure
- Nearly twice as likely to die from any cause compared with non-users
While the study revealed strong associations, researchers emphasized it did not prove that melatonin directly causes heart failure. They noted the findings raise valid safety concerns about prolonged use and warrant further research into melatonin’s cardiovascular impact.
Expert Perspective
Experts caution that the study is preliminary but noteworthy. Melatonin has generally been considered safe and even potentially heart-protective in short-term use. However, long-term effects remain unclear.
Dr. Rigved Tadwalkar, a cardiologist, noted that people with chronic insomnia already face elevated cardiovascular risks, regardless of whether they take melatonin. “This might be a guilt-by-association situation,” he said.
Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, an interventional cardiologist, emphasized that melatonin should be viewed as a short-term sleep aid, not a permanent solution. “If someone relies on it for over a year, they likely have an underlying issue that needs medical evaluation,” he said.
Understanding Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Synthetic melatonin supplements are widely available over the counter and are commonly used to treat insomnia or jet lag. However, because they’re unregulated, product quality and dosage can vary significantly.
The Importance of Healthy Sleep
Getting at least seven hours of quality sleep per night is essential for heart and overall health. According to the American Heart Association and CDC, adequate sleep supports immune function, weight regulation, metabolic health, and mental clarity. Chronic poor sleep, on the other hand, increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
How to Improve Sleep Naturally
Experts recommend these strategies for better sleep without relying on supplements:
- Get bright light exposure during the day
- Limit blue light from screens before bed
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals late in the evening
- Maintain a consistent bedtime and wake-up schedule
- Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet
- Try cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia, which targets habits and thoughts that interfere with sleep
“Good sleep hygiene practices are key,” said Tadwalkar. “Prioritize natural sleep methods before turning to supplements.”
Bottom line: While melatonin can be helpful in the short term, prolonged use may carry cardiovascular risks. Anyone relying on it long-term should consult a healthcare provider to identify and address the root cause of their sleep issues.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to help you maintain your healthy life. Our mission is to provide the highest quality and affordable health care to you and your family.Your health isn’t just some numbers and figures. A person’s well been lays upon a healthy body, good physical condition and more importantly, a sense of feeling well.
Locations:
3916 Prince St STE 251, Flushing, NY 11354
43-73 Union St Suite 1B, Flushing, NY 11355
Disclaimer: The content on this blog is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided is meant to be a helpful starting point for your own research and should not be solely relied upon to make decisions about your health or the health of others. The author of this blog makes no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information presented on this site. Under no circumstances should the author be held liable for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in the content or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, medication, exercise routine, or lifestyle, or when seeking advice regarding a specific medical condition or health concern. The use or reliance of any information contained on this site is solely at your own risk. This blog may contain links to external websites that are not affiliated with the author. The author is not responsible for and does not endorse the content of such external sites. Any references to products, services, or health care providers on this website are not an endorsement or recommendation by the author. By using this blog, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless the author, their agents, and affiliates from and against any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, or expenses, including legal fees and costs, arising out of or in any way connected with your access to or use of this blog.
