Cardiologists Warn: Nightly Melatonin Gummies May Harm Your Heart

According to a 2025 study by the American Heart Association, long-term use of the sleep supplement melatonin may lead to an increased risk of heart failure. The study defines "long-term" as just one year, which some cardiologists argue is not an exceptionally long period.

The findings are concerning, as 12% of Americans currently experience chronic insomnia, and many turn to melatonin to help them sleep. However, cardiologists caution that the link between melatonin and heart failure is not fully understood, and the study only shows correlation, not causation.

Cardiologists suggest several possible explanations for the potential connection, including melatonin overstimulating receptors in the heart, disrupting circadian rhythms, or interacting with undiagnosed sleep apnea. They advise that people with existing heart disease risk factors, such as hypertension or diabetes, should be especially cautious about long-term melatonin use.

Instead, cardiologists recommend exploring non-pharmacological options for insomnia, such as meditation, exercise, and addressing mental health concerns. For those who do use melatonin, they suggest shifting to short-term, situational use at the lowest effective dose, rather than taking it nightly. The experts emphasize that melatonin is not a "vitamin for sleep" and should be treated as a temporary aid, with a focus on developing healthy, evidence-based sleep habits.