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

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-D17) total score at end-point] of adjunct t-PBM NIR [823 nm; continuous wave (CW); 28.7 × 2 cm2; 36.2 mW/cm2; up to 65.2 J/cm2; 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-D17 total 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.

• Authors: 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
• Journal: Photomedicine and laser surgery (Photomed Laser Surg) Vol. 36 Issue 12 Pg. 634-646 (Dec 2018) ISSN: 1557-8550 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 30346890 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Depressive Disorder, Major (therapy)
• Double-Blind Method
• Humans
• Low-Level Light Therapy (methods)
• Pilot Projects
• Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic