Long-term Melatonin Use Linked to Higher Risk of Heart Failure, Study Finds
A recent study published by the American Heart Association (AHA) has revealed that chronic users of the popular sleep supplement melatonin are at a significantly higher risk of developing heart failure. According to researchers, individuals who regularly took melatonin were nearly twice as likely to develop heart failure and more than three times as likely to be hospitalized compared to those who did not use it.
However, medical experts caution against jumping to conclusions and emphasize that the over-the-counter supplement does not directly cause heart failure. Instead, constant reliance on melatonin at bedtime may indicate the presence of underlying heart issues or other sleep disorders that require attention.
Researchers analyzed the health records of more than 130,800 adults over a period of five years to identify any potential links between long-term melatonin use and cardiovascular disease. The study found that those who used melatonin regularly were also nearly twice as likely to die from complications related to heart failure.
Other factors may contribute to this increased risk, such as depression, anxiety, or the concurrent use of other sleep-enhancing aids. These findings underscore the importance of a comprehensive approach to addressing cardiovascular health and stress the need for more research into the effects and risks associated with long-term melatonin use.
The study's authors also note that the Food and Drug Administration regulates supplements like melatonin differently than prescription medications, which can lead to variability in dosages and ingredients. This highlights the importance of exercising caution when using any supplement and consulting a healthcare professional before starting or stopping treatment.
As researchers continue to unravel the complexities surrounding melatonin use and cardiovascular health, this study provides valuable insights into the potential risks associated with long-term reliance on popular sleep supplements. By shedding light on these issues, it may help inform future research and promote more informed decision-making among consumers seeking relief from insomnia and other sleep-related disorders.
A recent study published by the American Heart Association (AHA) has revealed that chronic users of the popular sleep supplement melatonin are at a significantly higher risk of developing heart failure. According to researchers, individuals who regularly took melatonin were nearly twice as likely to develop heart failure and more than three times as likely to be hospitalized compared to those who did not use it.
However, medical experts caution against jumping to conclusions and emphasize that the over-the-counter supplement does not directly cause heart failure. Instead, constant reliance on melatonin at bedtime may indicate the presence of underlying heart issues or other sleep disorders that require attention.
Researchers analyzed the health records of more than 130,800 adults over a period of five years to identify any potential links between long-term melatonin use and cardiovascular disease. The study found that those who used melatonin regularly were also nearly twice as likely to die from complications related to heart failure.
Other factors may contribute to this increased risk, such as depression, anxiety, or the concurrent use of other sleep-enhancing aids. These findings underscore the importance of a comprehensive approach to addressing cardiovascular health and stress the need for more research into the effects and risks associated with long-term melatonin use.
The study's authors also note that the Food and Drug Administration regulates supplements like melatonin differently than prescription medications, which can lead to variability in dosages and ingredients. This highlights the importance of exercising caution when using any supplement and consulting a healthcare professional before starting or stopping treatment.
As researchers continue to unravel the complexities surrounding melatonin use and cardiovascular health, this study provides valuable insights into the potential risks associated with long-term reliance on popular sleep supplements. By shedding light on these issues, it may help inform future research and promote more informed decision-making among consumers seeking relief from insomnia and other sleep-related disorders.