n/a
Abstract Title:

Transcranial Photobiomodulation for the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder. The ELATED-2 Pilot Trial.

Abstract Source:

Photomed Laser Surg. 2018 Oct 20. Epub 2018 Oct 20. PMID: 30346890

Abstract Author(s):

Paolo Cassano, Samuel R Petrie, David Mischoulon, Cristina Cusin, Husam Katnani, Albert Yeung, Luis De Taboada, Abigal Archibald, Eric Bui, Lee Baer, Trina Chang, Justin Chen, Paola Pedrelli, Lauren Fisher, Amy Farabaugh, Michael R Hamblin, Jonathan E Alpert, Maurizio Fava, Dan V Iosifescu

Article Affiliation:

Paolo Cassano

Abstract:

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to test the antidepressant effect of transcranial photobiomodulation (t-PBM) with near-infrared (NIR) light in subjects suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD).

BACKGROUND: t-PBM with NIR light is a new treatment for MDD. NIR light is absorbed by mitochondria; it boosts cerebral metabolism, promotes neuroplasticity, and modulates endogenous opioids, while decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a double-blind, sham-controlled study on the safety and efficacy (change in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale [HAM-D] total score at end-point) of adjunct t-PBM NIR [823 nm; continuous wave (CW); 28.7 × 2 cm; 36.2 mW/cm; up to 65.2 J/cm; 20-30 min/session], delivered to dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, bilaterally and simultaneously, twice a week, for 8 weeks, in subjects with MDD. Baseline observation carried forward (BOCF), last observation carried forward (LOCF), and completers analyses were performed.

RESULTS: The effect size for the antidepressant effect of t-PBM, based on change in HAM-Dtotal score at end-point, was 0.90, 0.75, and 1.5 (Cohen's d), respectively for BOCF (n = 21), LOCF (n = 19), and completers (n = 13). Further, t-PBM was fairly well tolerated, with no serious adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS: t-PBM with NIR light demonstrated antidepressant properties with a medium to large effect size in patients with MDD. Replication is warranted, especially in consideration of the small sample size.

Study Type : Human Study

Print Options


Key Research Topics

This website is for information purposes only. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural, integrative or conventional treatment regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.

© Copyright 2008-2024 GreenMedInfo.com, Journal Articles copyright of original owners, MeSH copyright NLM.