New research is prompting concern among scientists regarding the potential long-term health effects of melatonin, a widely used sleep aid. While often considered safe for short-term use, a new analysis suggests that prolonged melatonin prescriptions may be associated with a significantly higher risk of heart failure and mortality.
The Study Findings
A recent analysis of over 130,000 adults across multiple countries has revealed a concerning trend: individuals prescribed melatonin for more than a year exhibit a notable increase in cardiovascular risk. The study, which has not yet undergone peer review, found that long-term melatonin users were 89 percent more likely to develop heart failure over a five-year period and twice as likely to die from any cause compared to those not prescribed the supplement.
Additionally, a secondary analysis of the data showed that those who took melatonin for over a year were almost 3.5 times as likely to be hospitalized for heart failure. Moreover, the risk of dying from any cause increased from 4.3 percent to 7.8 percent between the two groups.
Understanding the Context
What does this mean? Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the brain that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Its synthetic counterpart is commonly used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. It’s the fourth most popular natural product taken by adults in the US, highlighting its widespread use. The growing popularity of melatonin, coupled with its availability over-the-counter in many countries, means many people take it without medical supervision, making longer-term effects less understood.
Concerns and Limitations
“Melatonin supplements may not be as harmless as commonly assumed,” says medical researcher Ekenedilichukwu Nnadi at SUNY Downstate/Kings County Primary Care in New York. “If our study is confirmed, this could affect how doctors counsel patients about sleep aids.”
Researchers are emphasizing that these findings are preliminary and do not necessarily mean melatonin is directly causing these adverse effects. However, they do underscore the need for further investigation into the long-term safety of melatonin use.
The study’s methodology does have a significant limitation. Researchers relied on prescription records to gauge melatonin use, rather than directly surveying participants. This means the control group (those not taking melatonin) may have included individuals who obtained the supplement without a prescription, potentially skewing the results.
The Bigger Picture
Why should you be cautious? While melatonin is generally considered safe and well-tolerated for short-term use (typically 1 to 2 months), there is limited research on its effects after that time. Even in the short term, melatonin can have side effects that many users aren’t aware of, such as potential risks for specific age groups. A recent series of non-fatal overdoses among children in Australia highlights these concerns.
Carlos Egea, President of the Spanish Federation of Sleep Medicine Societies, who was not involved in the study, agrees with the need for caution and encourages a prospective trial with a control group to more clearly define the safety profile of melatonin, particularly as a chronic therapy.
Conclusion
The research highlights a need for more extensive study of melatonin’s long-term health impacts. While it remains a popular and readily accessible sleep aid, these findings urge individuals, and particularly those considering prolonged use, to consult with a healthcare professional to assess potential risks and alternatives. Greater transparency around its uses and potential side effects is crucial to ensure safe practices.
