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Published on: November 18, 2018
Violet light photobiomodulation therapy for depression: A double-blind randomized crossover trial
Yoshihiro Noda1, Keita Taniguchi2, Mayuko Takano2
1Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; Department of Psychiatry, International University of Health and Welfare, Mita Hospital, 1-4-3 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8329, Japan.
Violet light irradiation goggles offer a novel, non-invasive treatment for mild major depressive disorder (MDD). This study found active goggles significantly improved depression scores compared to placebo, indicating a potential new therapy for MDD.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) treatment often relies on medication and psychotherapy.
- Challenges in MDD management include limited resources and poor patient adherence.
- Innovative, less burdensome interventions are needed for mild MDD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of active versus placebo violet light irradiation goggles for treating mild MDD.
- To assess the safety profile of violet light irradiation goggles.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with a crossover design.
- 57 Japanese outpatients with mild MDD used active or placebo 40-Hz violet light goggles for 4 weeks.
- Changes in Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale scores were the primary endpoint.
Main Results:
- Active violet light goggles significantly improved Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale scores compared to placebo goggles (p=0.042).
- No adverse events were reported during the use of the violet light irradiation goggles.
Conclusions:
- Violet light irradiation goggles are a safe, non-invasive option for mild MDD.
- Violet light may exert anti-depressant effects through neuromodulation of the depression network via OPN5.
