Study Questions Melatonin’s Impact on Heart Health, but Experts Urge Calm
WASHINGTON — A recent preliminary study has raised questions about a possible link between melatonin supplementation and heart failure, prompting headlines that suggest a serious risk. Health officials and sleep experts, however, advise the public not to panic, emphasizing that the findings are early and that melatonin remains widely used as a short‑term sleep aid.
The study, conducted by an academic research team and posted as a pre‑print, examined medical records of thousands of patients who reported regular melatonin use. Researchers observed a modest increase in the incidence of certain cardiac events among this group compared with non‑users. The analysis adjusted for age, obesity, and pre‑existing conditions, but the authors noted that the data were observational and could not establish causality.
Medical professionals stress that the results should be interpreted with caution. A spokesperson for the national health agency said that the study’s design does not prove that melatonin causes heart problems and that further randomized trials are needed. Similarly, cardiology specialists highlighted that many factors, such as lifestyle and medication interactions, can influence heart health, and that melatonin’s safety profile remains favorable in most clinical trials.
Melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep‑wake cycle, is available over the counter in many countries and is commonly taken to address insomnia, jet lag, or shift‑work disturbances. Prior research has shown benefits for sleep quality and circadian rhythm alignment, with few serious side effects reported. A handful of earlier investigations have explored cardiovascular effects, but the evidence has been inconclusive, reflecting the complexity of hormone‑mediated pathways.
Given the current evidence, experts recommend that individuals consult health providers before starting or stopping melatonin, especially those with existing heart conditions or who take multiple medications. Ongoing studies aim to clarify any potential cardiac implications, and regulators are monitoring the emerging data. In the meantime, the consensus remains that occasional melatonin use for short periods is unlikely to pose a significant risk.
