Suppression of melatonin secretion in healthy subjects with eyeglass LED delivery system.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Practicability remains a problem in light therapy of biological rhythm disorders. We report here the effect on melatonin secretion of a device consisting of a prototype of eyeglasses including light emitting diodes (LED) in lenses (Somnavue). METHODS: Light (1,200 lx) was administered in a randomised crossover design to ten healthy subjects with Somnavue for 1 or 2 hours, Lumino (a helmet which administers light) for 1 hour, and placebo, beginning at 0100 h. Plasma melatonin concentrations were evaluated between 2000-0500 h. RESULTS: Multiple comparisons showed differences between placebo and Somnavue administered for one or two hours (p<0.01 and p<0.05 respectively) and Lumino and placebo (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, Somnavue was able to suppress melatonin. The development of such a device could increase adherence with light treatment in SAD or circadian rhythm sleep disorders.