Light Therapy for Depression
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The goal of this neuroimaging pilot study is to understand developmental differences in the impact of therapeutic wavelength light (blue light) versus a non-therapeutic wavelength (red light) on emotional brain function in depression. The main questions this study aims to answer are: * Does acute exposure to blue light (vs red light) stabilize emotional brain function in depressed individuals? * Are stabilizing effects of blue light (vs red light) stronger for blue light in adolescents than young adults? Participants will complete: * A magnetic resonance imaging brain scan, in which we will examine the effect of blue versus red light on emotional brain function at rest and in response to rewards and losses. * A pupillometry test of sensitivity to blue vs red light * Clinical interviews and surveys * Screening measures for drug and alcohol use, MRI safety, and current pregnancy \[if relevant\] * Home sleep tracking with sleep diary and actigraphy for one week
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you can continue taking stable SSRI medication if you've been on it for more than 2 months. Other psychotropic medications are not allowed.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment for depression?
Research shows that bright light therapy (BLT) is effective in treating both seasonal and non-seasonal depression, with effects comparable to some antidepressant medications. It works by adjusting the body's internal clock and affecting mood-related chemicals, and is generally safe with mild side effects.12345
Is light therapy safe for humans?
Bright light therapy (BLT) is generally considered safe for humans, with studies showing it is well-tolerated and has minimal side effects, such as occasional blurring. It has been used effectively for conditions like seasonal affective disorder and bipolar depression, and is noted for its good tolerance even in special populations like pregnant women.23678
How is light therapy different from other treatments for depression?
Light therapy, including blue and red light therapy, is unique because it is a non-drug treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to influence brain activity and mood. Unlike traditional medications, it is non-invasive and can be administered without the need for retinal exposure, making it a low-risk option for treating depression.148910
Research Team
Adriane M Soehner, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Pittsburgh
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adolescents and young adults with depression who can read and write in English, have no severe medical or neurological issues, are not pregnant or nursing, and haven't had substance/alcohol problems recently. Participants must be right-handed, not color-blind, off most psychotropic meds except stable SSRIs, and able to maintain a regular sleep schedule.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo MRI scans and pupillometry tests to assess the impact of blue versus red light on emotional brain function.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any delayed effects of light exposure and complete additional surveys.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Blue Light
- Red Light
Blue Light is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada for the following indications:
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
- Non-seasonal depression
- Jet lag
- Sleep disorders
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
- Non-seasonal depression
- Circadian rhythm disorders
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
- Non-seasonal depression
- Sleep disorders
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Pittsburgh
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator