Red Light Therapy for Depression
PBM reduced HAM-D17 total score in a randomized double-blind ELATED-2 trial (Cassano 2018). The subsequent ELATED-3 trial reported no benefit. Whole-body hyperthermia induced with near-infrared light improved depressive symptoms in a RCT (Janssen 2016).
Evidence Summary
5 human RCT 4 human non-RCT 2 case reports or series
Related Conditions in Psychiatry
Research Basis
This content is informed by 47+ published peer-reviewed studies on photobiomodulation.
RedLightOS Research Team
Photobiomodulation Research
The RedLightOS team reviews over 9,500 published photobiomodulation studies to deliver evidence-based red light therapy guidance.
Reviewed by RedLightOS Research Team. Last reviewed: . Based on published photobiomodulation research. For educational purposes only — not a substitute for professional medical advice. See our methodology.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Red light therapy devices are wellness devices and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary.