Melatonin Use Linked to Higher Heart Failure Risk in Long-Term Study
The use of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, has surged in recent years, with up to 27% of U.S. adults and 4% of children taking it. However, a recent study has raised concerns about the long-term effects of melatonin use.
Research has found that regular melatonin use for at least a year was nearly twice as likely to develop heart failure compared to non-users. Melatonin users were more than three times as likely to be hospitalized for heart failure and nearly twice as likely to die during the study period. Experts caution that melatonin should not be taken chronically without a proper indication. While melatonin supplements themselves do not cause heart problems, regular use could be a sign of underlying cardiac issues. Heart failure, affecting nearly 7 million Americans, occurs when the heart can't pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body's organs for them to function properly. People taking melatonin for sleep for more than a year should consult their doctor to discuss potential risks and benefits.
The potential risks of long-term melatonin use highlight the importance of responsible use and regular medical consultation. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential side effects of melatonin supplements.
