What Taking Melatonin Could Reveal About Your Heart Health

A new study suggests that long-term melatonin use might reveal more than just trouble sleeping—it could be a sign of underlying heart health concerns.

According to researchers, adults who used melatonin for more than a year were at a higher risk of heart failure and early death. However, experts emphasize that melatonin itself isn’t causing these issues. Instead, the need for continuous use may signal deeper cardiovascular problems.

The Study at a Glance

Researchers from SUNY Downstate/Kings County Primary Care in New York analyzed health records from over 130,000 adults with an average age of 56. They found that:

• People who took melatonin regularly for at least a year were nearly twice as likely to develop heart failure compared to non-users.
• They were three times more likely to be hospitalized for heart-related conditions.
• They also faced a higher risk of early death during the study period.

While these findings sound concerning, the researchers clarified that melatonin itself wasn’t the cause. Instead, chronic sleep issues—often linked with high blood pressure, stress hormones, and inflammation—may be early warning signs of cardiovascular stress.

Expert Opinions

Cardiologists caution against drawing firm conclusions yet. “This is an important observation, but we need more research to understand if there’s a direct link,” said Dr. Nishant Shah, preventive cardiologist at Duke University Medical Center.

Dr. Martha Gulati from Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Institute added, “Many people use supplements without realizing potential risks. If a supplement leads to harm, the cost could be much greater than we think.”

What You Should Know About Melatonin

Melatonin is a natural hormone that helps regulate sleep cycles. Synthetic melatonin, widely available as a supplement, is often used for insomnia or jet lag. However, because it’s not regulated by the FDA, dosages and purity can vary significantly across brands.

If you’ve been taking melatonin for more than a year, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider. Persistent sleep problems can be an indicator of deeper health issues that deserve professional evaluation.

Melatonin can be helpful for occasional sleeplessness—but long-term reliance may point to something more serious. Monitoring your sleep patterns and discussing any ongoing issues with your doctor can help protect your heart health in the long run.

At Mediserv Pharmacy, your trusted local Bronx pharmacy, we’re committed to helping you make informed decisions about your health. Whether you’re managing insomnia, monitoring your heart health, or reviewing your supplement use, our pharmacists provide personalized guidance and reliable care. Visit us today or speak with one of our experts to ensure your medications and supplements are working safely together—because your heart and health deserve the best support.