For years, melatonin has been the go-to remedy for millions struggling to fall asleep, marketed as a gentle and natural solution. But new research has cast a dark shadow over its safety, suggesting that this nightly ritual could come with hidden risks few ever imagined.
Melatonin’s Unseen Dangers
Melatonin, a common over-the-counter sleep aid, may not be as benign as once thought. A recent preliminary study presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2025 reveals a startling connection between long-term melatonin use and increased risk of heart failure.
This study analyzed electronic health records and discovered that individuals using melatonin for 12 months or more had about a 90% higher chance of developing heart failure over five years compared to non-users. The findings could significantly impact the millions who rely on melatonin for sleep.
Secondary analyses of the study further uncovered that melatonin users were nearly 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure and faced double the odds of dying from any cause within the same timeframe.
These findings cast a shadow on the safety of chronic melatonin supplementation, especially as its use grows among adults seeking sleep solutions. The study’s preliminary nature means these results should be approached with caution, yet they undeniably raise important questions about melatonin’s long-term health implications.
The Rise of Melatonin
Melatonin, a hormone naturally produced by the pineal gland, regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Its synthetic form has been available since the 1990s and gained popularity for treating insomnia and jet lag. In the U.S., melatonin is classified as a dietary supplement and is available without a prescription.
Its use surged during the COVID-19 pandemic as more individuals reported sleep disturbances. Despite its reputation as a safe, natural solution, the recent study challenges this perception, urging a reevaluation of its long-term safety.
The findings presented at the AHA sessions have prompted responses from several health organizations and industry groups. The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) has called for further investigation, cautioning against overinterpretation of preliminary data. Meanwhile, healthcare providers might reconsider recommending melatonin, particularly for chronic use, until more comprehensive research is conducted.
Potential Implications and Responses
The study’s implications are far-reaching, with potential effects on consumer behavior, healthcare practices, and the dietary supplement industry. In the short term, the increased awareness of melatonin’s risks may lead to changes in how consumers use the supplement and how healthcare providers advise their patients.
Long-term, there could be regulatory actions from bodies like the FDA, changes in clinical guidelines, and a push for more research into the safety of melatonin and other over-the-counter sleep aids.
Industry experts and academic researchers alike agree that while the findings are concerning, they remain preliminary. Experts emphasize the need for further research to fully understand the potential risks and benefits of long-term melatonin use. This call for caution and additional investigation underscores the complexity of dietary supplements and the importance of evidence-based health recommendations.