Psychiatr. pro Praxi, 2010; 11(4): 160-163

Bright light therapy - a strange alternative method or neglected evidence-based treatment?

MUDr.Luboš Janů, Ph.D., Mgr.Petra Váchová, MUDr.Sylva Racková

Psychiatrická klinika FN Plzeň

Disorders of the circadial rhythm are well known for years. They occurs in mental and sleep disorders and in many somatic disorders.

The concern, about light therapy increased, it’s the first choice indication in winter depression. It has been demonstrated that the effect

size in depression is the same as with antidepressants, but occurs sooner. The contraindications are rare and adverse events mild. It can

be used in other different pathologies such as major depression, and many other disorders of the circadian rhythm, whether they are of

primary or secondary origin. In this article we summarize the bright light mode of action and data about efficacy and safety having regard

to evidence-based medicine. Bright light therapy can also be viewed as an alternative to the pharmacological approach.

Keywords: bright light therapy, seasonal affective disorders, major depression, addiction, pregnancy, dementia, circadian rhytm disorders

Published: December 1, 2010  Show citation