Melatonin supplements are often seen as a simple and natural solution for sleepless nights. Many people use them to manage insomnia, reduce nighttime anxiety, or adjust sleep schedules after travel. Because melatonin is so easy to buy and commonly recommended in casual conversation, it is often taken without much thought. However, new research suggests that long-term melatonin use may carry possible risks for heart health, especially for people dealing with chronic insomnia.
Why Melatonin Is So Common
Melatonin is a hormone the brain naturally releases when it gets dark. This helps signal to the body that it is time to sleep. The supplement form works similarly, but unlike prescription medicines, melatonin is not strictly regulated in many places. That means the dosage and purity can vary from one brand to another.
While melatonin is often helpful in the short term, daily use over long periods is not usually recommended unless advised by a healthcare professional.
What the Study Looked At
Researchers reviewed five years of medical records for more than 130,000 adults with insomnia. Some had taken melatonin for at least a year, while others had never used it. The goal was to see whether long-term melatonin use was linked to differences in heart health outcomes.
What the Study Found
The results showed noticeable differences:
- People who used melatonin for a year or more had a higher chance of developing heart failure.
- They were more likely to be hospitalized due to heart failure symptoms.
- The overall risk of death was also higher in the long-term melatonin group.
These findings do not prove that melatonin directly causes these outcomes. But the pattern is strong enough to raise concern and encourage more research.
Comparison of Health Outcomes
| Health Outcome | Long-Term Melatonin Users | Non-Users |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Failure Risk | Higher | Lower |
| Hospitalization for Heart Failure | Much Higher | Lower |
| Risk of Death (Over 5 Years) | Higher | Lower |
The difference is clear, especially regarding hospitalization rates.
What This Means for Sleep Support
This does not mean melatonin must be avoided completely. It can be useful when used occasionally or for short periods. The concern is taking melatonin every night for months or years without guidance.
Better long-term sleep support can include:
- A consistent sleep schedule
- Reducing screen time before bed
- Limiting caffeine intake late in the day
- Creating a calm nighttime routine
- Seeking professional support for ongoing insomnia
These approaches focus on long-lasting improvement instead of relying on supplements.
Final Thoughts
The new research highlights that long-term melatonin use may have effects on the heart that many people are unaware of. While the study is still considered preliminary, it serves as an important reminder: even natural supplements should be used thoughtfully.
If you take melatonin regularly, consider discussing your sleep habits with a healthcare provider to make sure you are supporting both healthy rest and heart wellness.
