CompletedPhase 2

Research Study of Treatment for Winter Depression With Different Colors of Light

United States9 participantsStarted 2006-11

Plain-language summary

The specific aim of this study is to test the hypothesis that light stimuli concentrated around 467 nm will evoke a significantly stronger therapeutic response in SAD patients compared to light stimuli concentrated around 657 nm at an equal photon density. The secondary objective of this study is to determine the efficacy of different colors and levels of light in order to optimize therapeutic benefit, while also minimizing side effects and maintaining safety of light exposure.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Clinical diagnosis of Seasonal Affective Disorder * Over 18 years old * Stable sleeping pattern with a bedtime no later than 1 a.m. Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant women * Concurrent psychiatric illness that would preclude compliance with the protocol * active suicidal or homicidal ideation or plan * variable psychiatric illness (i.e. rapid cycling disorder or severe premenstrual syndrome) * individuals with substance abuse or dependence who have not been in remission for at least one year * individuals taking photosensitizing medications * individuals with macular degeneration or other ocular conditions which might be adversely affected by light * less then six weeks after onset of psychotherapeutic treatment

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Depression Scale - Seasonal Affective Disorder Version (SIGH-SAD); Weekly for Three Weeks

Timeframe: Averaged over Three Weeks During Treatment

Trial details

NCT IDNCT00269633

SponsorThomas Jefferson University

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2008-05

Results submitted2015-05-18

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Seasonal Affective Disorder trials