If you’ve heard that melatonin raises your risk of heart failure, take a breath—the story is more complicated than the headlines suggest.
Our experts at UR Medicine make an important point: The research behind these headlines, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, is early and does not prove that the supplement causes heart problems. It also has important limitations, so experts say it’s too soon to draw conclusions.
Understanding the Study on Melatonin and the Heart
What the study looked at: Researchers examined health records from over 130,000 adults with insomnia from around the world. They compared people who were prescribed melatonin for at least one year to those who did not have a prescription.
What the study found: Over five years, the participants who had melatonin prescriptions showed a statistically higher rate of heart failure diagnosis. However, this type of study can only show a connection, not a cause. This means melatonin might not be the reason for the increased risk.
Experts are cautious because the study has several notable limitations:
- It did not track the dosage or the severity of insomnia.
- Melatonin is available over-the-counter in several countries. People who were not prescribed it might have still taken it.
- The difference in risk was modest, and the overall rate of heart failure remained low. The numbers require further study to fully understand their true impact.
“The people who took melatonin may have been more likely to have poor sleep or have other health issues that could explain an increased incidence of heart failure,” said UR Medicine cardiologist Andrew Mathias, MD.
Is it safe to take melatonin?
For most healthy adults, short-term, occasional use is considered safe. However, taking more than your body needs may increase side effects like grogginess, headaches, or vivid dreams.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that melatonin be used cautiously and primarily for specific circadian rhythm disorders or short-term sleep adjustment. There are many other ways to solve sleep concerns. Before taking supplements, try these helpful sleep tips.
6 Steps to Better Sleep
- Don’t oversleep
- Keep a consistent, healthy sleep routine
- Exercise regularly
- Make your bedroom comfortable
- Don’t lie in bed unless you’re tired
- Avoid checking the time
If you’ve never taken melatonin and want to begin, talk with your healthcare provider about the right dose and whether it is appropriate for you.
Does melatonin have side effects?
Melatonin is naturally occurring in our bodies, with levels peaking at night. Taking additional supplements might be helpful in regulating a sleep routine or treating certain sleep disorders.
There are some potential side effects of melatonin, including:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Drowsiness during the day
Less common side effects may include decreased appetite, stomach and gastrointestinal issues, confusion, mood swings, short-term feelings of depression, reduced alertness, and vivid dreams or nightmares.
Is melatonin safe for kids?
Pediatric sleep expert Heidi Connolly, MD, emphasizes that for children, it’s important to avoid sending a message that drugs are needed for good sleep.
3×2 Model for Sleep
A sleeping environment should be cool, dark, and quiet. Bedtime and overnight routines should have:
The same bedtime routine. Nightly activities, like showering or reading, tell your mind it’s time to sleep.
The same sleeping location. Have your child use their own bed. If they wake up, they’re more likely to soothe themselves back to sleep.- The same sleep and wake times. A consistent sleep schedule helps prevent weekly “jet lag” that occurs between the week and weekend.
Instead, working on good sleep habits and implementing behavioral changes are effective ways to help children sleep soundly and consistently at night.
While some children may require medications to help them sleep, the vast majority do not.
When medications are needed, work with your healthcare provider to ensure that the safest medications are used for the shortest duration possible. Remember, all medications have side effects.
“The 3×2 model is a great way to think about good sleep habits. Try this with your children first to establish a healthy sleep routine,” said Dr. Connolly.
If your child is having difficulty sleeping, help is available and can benefit not only your child’s sleep but also your own.
In general, it’s important to remember that dietary supplements are not regulated as strictly as prescription medications. Because of that, the actual amount of melatonin in over-the-counter products can vary significantly from the labeled packaging. Always reach out to your healthcare provider to find the best option for you or your child.
Treating Sleep Disorders
The UR Medicine Sleep Center is the largest sleep disorders facility in Western New York. Our collaborative approach allows experienced providers from multiple departments to factor in all medical conditions a patient might have. We help patients navigate a complex medical condition by connecting them with the right care.
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