Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before making any changes to your health regimen.

Millions swear by a “natural” fix for sleepless nights, but new research reveals a troubling side to this bedtime habit.

What was once seen as a gentle, harmless aid may actually be linked to serious heart risks.

Its popularity has soared, becoming a go-to for those desperate for rest, but experts say it’s time to take a closer look.

If you’ve ever relied on this nightly supplement, this latest warning may change the way you see it.


Melatonin is a hormone your body naturally produces, helping to regulate your sleep-wake cycle. As the sun sets, your body increases melatonin production, making you feel sleepy. When daylight returns, those levels drop, signaling it’s time to wake up. It’s a clever system until insomnia, jet lag, or shift work throws it out of whack.

That’s where melatonin supplements come in. Available over the counter in many countries, particularly the US, these pills and gummies promise to help you fall asleep faster and enjoy a better night’s rest. For many, they seem like a harmless, even healthy, alternative to prescription sleeping pills.


However, a recent study from the American Heart Association (AHA) is raising serious concerns about the long-term safety of melatonin, especially for individuals who use it regularly. Researchers tracked the health records of more than 130,000 adults with insomnia over five years. Half of these individuals used melatonin for at least a year, while the other half did not.

Heart failure affects about 6.7 million US adults and occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to supply the body’s organs properly, according to the AHA. Long-term melatonin users had a whopping 90% higher risk of developing heart failure compared to non-users.

Those who filled at least two melatonin prescriptions 90 days apart had an 82% higher risk. Even more alarming, melatonin users were nearly 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure and twice as likely to die during the study period.

Dr. Ekenedilichukwu Nnadi, the study’s lead author, warns, “Melatonin supplements may not be as harmless as commonly assumed.”



The study doesn’t prove that melatonin directly causes heart failure, but the association is strong enough to warrant expert attention. There are a few possible explanations:

• Underlying Health Issues: People with severe insomnia may already be at higher risk for heart problems.
• Dosage Confusion: Melatonin supplements vary wildly in strength. Some contain much more than your body would ever naturally produce, sometimes 5 mg or 10mg per dose, compared to the tiny fraction of a milligram your brain makes.
• Lack of Regulation: In some other countries, melatonin is available by prescription for adults over 55; however, in the US, it’s sold freely, often with little oversight. This means what’s on the label might not match what’s in the bottle.

Also read: Is your brain at risk? Doctors urge caution with this common over-the-counter medication

Melatonin isn’t technically a “sleeping pill.” It’s a chronobiotic, meaning it helps signal to your body when it’s time to sleep, but it doesn’t actually induce sleep. For most people with chronic insomnia, studies show melatonin isn’t much more effective than a placebo.

Dr. Wendy Troxel, a sleep expert, warns that the popularity of melatonin is partly due to the misconception that “natural” means “safe.” She also points out that melatonin gummies, especially those marketed to children, can be tempting and lead to accidental overdoses.

If you’re struggling with sleep, don’t panic, but do take this new research seriously. Experts recommend:

1. Talk to Your Doctor: Before starting (or continuing) melatonin, have a chat with your GP, especially if you have heart issues or take other medications.
2. Try Proven Therapies: Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is the gold standard for long-term sleep problems. It’s more effective than medication and has no side effects.
3. Use Melatonin Sparingly: If you do use melatonin, stick to the lowest possible dose and only for short periods, such as adjusting to a new time zone or during a temporary bout of sleeplessness.
4. Check the Label: In countries, prescription melatonin is regulated; however, if you’re buying supplements online or overseas, be cautious of high doses and unverified brands.

Also read: Struggling to sleep? Discover 5 genius tricks to beat insomnia tonight

It’s important to remember that this was an observational study. That means it can’t prove melatonin causes heart failure, just that there’s a link. Other factors, such as the severity of insomnia or other underlying health conditions, may also play a role. More research is needed to fully understand the risks.

The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) notes that the study focused on individuals with chronic insomnia, rather than healthy adults who occasionally use melatonin. If you only take melatonin now and then, the risks may be much lower, but it’s still wise to be cautious.

Melatonin might seem like a simple fix for sleepless nights, but it’s not as risk-free as many believe, especially if you’re using it long-term. If you’re over 60 and considering melatonin, or already taking it, now’s the time to review your options and talk to your doctor.

Read next:

• Shocking truth: The nightly routine that may be destroying your health, revealed by a naturopathic expert!
• The sleep trick that actually works: My no-nonsense bedtime ritual for deeper rest
• Sleeping this way might be damaging your health—here's what doctors want you to know!

Have you tried melatonin? Did it help—or did you notice any side effects? What’s your go-to sleep strategy?