Overview
- A review of TriNetX records for 130,828 adults with chronic insomnia found higher five-year event rates among those documented as using melatonin for at least 12 months compared with matched non-users.
- New heart failure occurred in 4.6% of long-term users versus 2.7% of non-users, with hospitalization at 19.0% versus 6.6% and all-cause death at 7.8% versus 4.3%.
- A sensitivity analysis requiring at least two prescriptions 90 days apart showed a similar risk pattern, reinforcing the primary findings.
- Authors cite major limitations, including unrecorded over-the-counter use in places like the U.S. and lack of data on insomnia severity and psychiatric conditions.
- Independent experts urge chronic users to consult clinicians as the preliminary, non–peer-reviewed results are slated for presentation at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions Nov. 7–10.