### Melatonin Use: A Double-Edged Sword for Sleep and Heart Health Recent studies have raised significant concerns regarding the long-term use of melatonin supplements, commonly used to aid sleep. While melatonin is often perceived as a safe and natural sleep aid, emerging research suggests that chronic use may be linked to serious cardiovascular issues, particularly heart failure. This has prompted scientists and health experts to urge caution among those relying on melatonin for sleep management. ### Understanding the Risks of Long-Term Melatonin Use 1. **Increased Heart Failure Risk**: Research indicates that adults with chronic insomnia who used melatonin for a year or more were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with heart failure and require hospitalization for the condition [https://www.earth.com/news/melatonin-may-not-be-as-harmless-as-it-seems-researchers-warn]. 2. **Potential for Hidden Complications**: Long-term melatonin supplementation may mask underlying heart health issues, leading to a higher risk of heart complications [https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/regular-melatonin-supplementation-may-hide-hidden-heart-complications]. 3. **Industry Response**: The Natural Products Association and the Council for Responsible Nutrition have cautioned against drawing broad conclusions from these findings, emphasizing that melatonin is not intended for chronic insomnia treatment and is generally safe for short-term use [https://www.nutraingredients.com/Article/2025/11/03/supplements-industry-hits-back-as-new-study-questions-safety-of-long-term-melatonin-use]. ### Key Findings from Recent Research - A study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2025 found that long-term melatonin use is associated with a **90% higher risk of heart failure** among chronic insomnia patients [https://www.nutraingredients.com/Article/2025/11/03/supplements-industry-hits-back-as-new-study-questions-safety-of-long-term-melatonin-use]. - Analysis of health records for over **130,000 adults** revealed that those using melatonin for at least a year had increased rates of heart failure diagnoses and hospitalizations [https://apnews.com/press-release/newmediawire/long-term-use-of-melatonin-supplements-to-support-sleep-may-have-negative-health-effects-918555e5a26c5734e3052290e41b6977]. - Experts warn that reliance on melatonin supplements could lead to **deadly heart conditions**, urging individuals to reconsider their use [https://mahalsa.co.uk/as-melatonins-terrifying-link-to-fatal-heart-condition-is-revealed-experts-weigh-in-on-sleep-aids-safety]. ### Conclusion: A Cautious Approach to Melatonin Supplementation 1. **Awareness of Risks**: The potential link between long-term melatonin use and heart failure necessitates a careful evaluation of sleep aids and individual health conditions. 2. **Consultation with Healthcare Providers**: Individuals should consult healthcare professionals before starting or continuing melatonin supplementation, especially for chronic insomnia. 3. **Consider Alternatives**: Exploring non-pharmaceutical sleep aids or lifestyle changes may provide safer options for managing sleep issues without the associated risks of melatonin. In summary, while melatonin may offer short-term relief for sleep disturbances, its long-term use could pose significant health risks, particularly concerning heart health. Individuals are encouraged to approach melatonin with caution and seek professional guidance [https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/melatonin-sleep-supplement-heart-harm-b2857948.html].