New Study Links Melatonin and Heart Failure
A recent study examining health records of tens of thousands of adults with chronic insomnia found that those who took prescribed melatonin for over a year had an increased risk of heart failure within five years compared to nonusers, the American Heart Association announced Monday.
Study Findings
- People using melatonin were more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure.
- Melatonin users had a higher risk of death from any cause than those who did not take the supplement.
Expert Reactions
The study has not yet been peer-reviewed and has received mixed responses from sleep medicine specialists and cardiologists. Experts caution the public against making hurried changes and emphasize the need for further research into the safety of long-term melatonin use.
The American Heart Association stated the results are preliminary and stem from an abstract expected to be presented at their Scientific Sessions conference on cardiovascular science and medicine.
These findings contradict earlier research suggesting melatonin could benefit people with heart failure, highlighting the complexity of its effects on health.
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Summary: While a new study suggests a link between long-term melatonin use and increased heart failure risk, experts advise caution and call for more research before changing current practices.
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