A recent study analyzed health records of tens of thousands of adults with chronic insomnia and found that those taking prescribed melatonin for over a year had an increased risk of heart failure within five years compared to nonusers, the American Heart Association reported Monday.
Sleep medicine experts and cardiologists have responded cautiously, urging the public not to make sudden changes based on these preliminary findings. The study has not yet undergone peer review and more research is needed, especially regarding long-term melatonin use.
The American Heart Association noted: "The preliminary results appear to conflict with earlier research indicating potential health benefits of melatonin for heart failure patients."
This research is expected to be presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions, a major conference on cardiovascular science and medicine.
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This initial study suggests a possible link between long-term melatonin use and heart failure risk, but experts emphasize that more research is essential before drawing conclusions or changing usage.