Bright vs Dim Light Therapy for Bipolar Disorder Depression
(BPII-DEP-LT Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to test whether bright light therapy can help individuals with bipolar disorder type II who experience depression during the fall and winter months. Participants will use either a bright light therapy lamp or a placebo (inactive treatment) to determine if it improves mood and overall well-being. The trial seeks individuals diagnosed with bipolar type II who are currently experiencing a depressive episode that began in September or later. Participants should not have other psychiatric conditions or medical issues such as untreated diabetes or high blood pressure.
As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding how bright light therapy might benefit those with bipolar disorder type II.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are taking photosensitizing drugs like lithium or phenothiazines, you may not be eligible to participate.
What prior data suggests that light therapy is safe for treating bipolar disorder depression?
Research has shown that bright light therapy, such as using the Northern Light Technology SADelite lamp, has been safely used for about 30 years. It effectively treats conditions like seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Studies have found it generally safe, with very few experiencing serious side effects. Some might encounter mild issues like headaches or eye strain, but these are uncommon. Overall, bright light therapy is considered a safe option for many managing mood-related conditions.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike standard treatments for bipolar disorder depression, which often involve medication like mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, bright light therapy uses a non-drug approach. This treatment is unique because it harnesses bright light to potentially improve mood and regulate sleep cycles. Researchers are excited about this therapy as it offers a novel mechanism of action that doesn’t rely on adjusting brain chemicals through medication. Additionally, it might provide a quicker onset of relief and help reduce side effects associated with traditional pharmacological treatments.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for bipolar disorder depression?
Research shows that bright light therapy (BLT), which participants in this trial may receive, can greatly help people with bipolar depression. Studies have found that those using BLT experienced a noticeable decrease in depression symptoms compared to those using dim light therapy, another treatment option in this trial. This indicates that BLT effectively reduces depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder. Additionally, reviews of multiple studies confirm that BLT is both effective and safe for treating these symptoms. Overall, the evidence strongly supports BLT as a promising treatment for bipolar depression during the darker months.23678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Serge Beaulieu, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
McGill University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with Bipolar Type II disorder experiencing a depressive phase, as defined by specific clinical scales. They must have symptoms that started in autumn or winter and be willing to consent to the study. Excluded are those with other psychiatric conditions, unstable medical issues, certain vitamin deficiencies, risk of light-induced mania or migraines, pregnancy without contraception, severe eye diseases, substance abuse problems, or past light therapy use.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive daily morning light therapy for 30 minutes over 5 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Open-label extension (optional)
Participants may continue light therapy beyond 5 weeks to assess long-term benefits
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Northern Light Technology (SADelite lamp) bright light-therapy
- Northern Light Technology (SADelite lamp) Dim light-therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Douglas Mental Health University Institute
Lead Sponsor
National Alliance for Research on Schizophrenia and Depression
Collaborator