Melatonin and Sleep Pills: Are They Helping or Harming Your Heart?
Tagline: New study links long-term sleep aid use to increased heart risks
A new study presented at the American Heart Association’s 2025 conference suggests that prolonged use of melatonin and other sleep medications may raise the risk of heart failure. Experts urge patients to consider safer sleep practices and consult healthcare professionals before relying on long-term sleep aids.
Melatonin and Sleep Pills: Are They Helping or Harming Your Heart?
Insomnia affects millions worldwide — and Pakistan is no exception. With an increasing number of people turning to sleep aids and melatonin supplements, experts are now questioning how safe these remedies truly are for heart health.
A new study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2025 found that adults who regularly used melatonin or prescription sleep pills for over a year faced a 90% higher risk of developing heart failure within five years, compared to those who didn’t use these drugs.
The findings, based on medical data from over 131,000 adults with insomnia, also revealed that long-term sleep pill users were 3.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure and twice as likely to die from any cause during the follow-up period.
Experts Warn of Hidden Risks
According to Dr. Ekenedilichukwu Nnadi, the study’s lead author, the findings show a strong association but not direct proof that sleep pills cause heart failure. He emphasized the need for more research to determine whether these drugs directly harm the heart or if insomnia-related factors are at play.
Dr. Kanika P. Mody, an advanced heart failure specialist, noted that melatonin is often viewed as a natural, harmless option. However, she cautioned that insomnia can sometimes be an early symptom of heart problems. Ignoring it and depending solely on sleep aids could delay diagnosis and worsen long-term health outcomes.
Safe Alternatives for Better Sleep
Healthcare experts in Pakistan recommend trying non-drug strategies before turning to sleep medications. These can improve both sleep and heart health:
- Keep a regular sleep schedule and create a calm bedtime routine.
- Avoid screens, caffeine, and heavy meals before bed.
- Stay physically active during the day.
- Consult a doctor to check for underlying issues like sleep apnea.
- If melatonin is necessary, use the lowest effective dose (1–3 mg) and take it 1–2 hours before sleep.
Cardiologist Dr. Yu-Ming Ni also highlighted that over-the-counter sleep aids, including melatonin supplements, are not strictly regulated by the FDA, meaning doses and ingredients can vary. This inconsistency may increase potential risks, especially for people with existing heart conditions.
The Bottom Line
Melatonin and sleep pills can be helpful for short-term sleep problems, but long-term use may come with serious heart risks. For those struggling with insomnia in Pakistan, healthcare providers recommend focusing on lifestyle changes, stress management, and professional guidance rather than depending on pills.
If you’re using sleep aids regularly, talk to your doctor about safer, heart-friendly alternatives — your sleep and your heart will both thank you.
