Photobiomodulation for Alzheimer's Disease

This trial tests whether a special light treatment, called photobiomodulation, can aid those with memory problems due to Mild Cognitive Impairment or Mild Dementia from Alzheimer's disease. The treatment involves applying light to the forehead to determine if it improves thinking skills and affects blood signals related to inflammation and brain health. Participants will undergo cognitive tests and provide blood samples before and after the treatment. Individuals with Alzheimer's who can attend in-person sessions and are on stable medication may be suitable candidates.

As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore a novel treatment approach for memory issues.

The trial requires that you have been on a stable dose of Alzheimer's medications for at least 4 weeks before joining. It doesn't specify stopping other medications, so you may not need to stop them.

Research has shown that photobiomodulation, a type of light therapy, is generally safe. Studies have found that this treatment can reduce swelling and improve blood flow in the brain, which might benefit those with memory problems, such as Alzheimer's disease.

One study suggested that photobiomodulation is safe and may aid some aspects of thinking and memory. However, this study included only a small number of participants. The FDA has approved the device used in this therapy for other purposes, such as pain relief and improved blood flow, but it is being applied in a new way for this study.

Researchers are excited about photobiomodulation for Alzheimer's disease because it offers a novel approach compared to existing treatments. Unlike standard therapies that often rely on drugs to manage symptoms, photobiomodulation uses a specific wavelength of light (1064nm) to potentially influence brain activity and reduce the effects of Alzheimer's. This non-invasive method could provide a new avenue for treatment with fewer side effects and a different mechanism of action by potentially promoting cellular repair and reducing inflammation in the brain. This innovative technique could offer hope for better management of Alzheimer's symptoms.

Research has shown that photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) might help reduce the buildup of beta-amyloid in the brain, often linked to Alzheimer's disease. Some studies suggest this therapy could also address related brain issues in Alzheimer's treatment. While not all research indicates major improvements in symptoms like anxiety, evidence suggests PBMT could be a safe and effective treatment option for Alzheimer's. In this trial, participants will receive either active photobiomodulation or a sham treatment. The active treatment uses a special light on the forehead, possibly improving memory and thinking skills. Overall, early findings suggest PBMT could be a promising non-invasive therapy for Alzheimer's.³⁶⁷⁸⁹