A double-blind randomized controlled trial to assess the effect of bright light therapy on depression in patients with Parkinson's disease.

ABSTRACT:

Background

A disturbed circadian rhythm seems to be a causal factor in the occurrence of depressive disorders in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). The circadian rhythm can be restored with light. Therefore, Bright Light Therapy (BLT) might be a new treatment option for depression in PD patients.

Methods/design

In this double-blind controlled trial, 84 subjects with idiopathic PD are randomized to either BLT or a control light condition. The BLT condition emits white light with an intensity of 10,000 Lux, while the control device emits dim white light of 200 Lux, which is presumed to be too low to influence the circadian rhythm. Subjects receive 30 min of home treatment twice daily for three months. Timing of treatment is based on the individual chronotype. After finish

SUBMITTER: Rutten S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5073442 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature