Blocking nocturnal blue light for insomnia: A randomized controlled trial

Shechter A, Kim EW, St-Onge MP, Westwood AJ (2018) Journal of Psychiatric Research
Title and abstract of Blocking nocturnal blue light for insomnia: A randomized controlled trial

Key Takeaway

Wearing amber-tinted blue-blocking glasses for 2 hours before bed improved sleep quality, duration, and insomnia symptoms in adults with insomnia, compared to clear placebo lenses.

Summary

Randomized controlled trial testing whether blue-blocking glasses worn before bed could improve sleep in adults with insomnia symptoms.

Methods

  • Randomized, placebo-controlled trial
  • 14 adults with insomnia symptoms
  • 2-week intervention
  • Amber lenses (blue-blocking) vs clear lenses (placebo)
  • Worn for 2 hours before bedtime
  • Sleep measured by actigraphy and questionnaires

Key Results

  • Significantly improved sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index)
  • Increased total sleep time by ~30 minutes
  • Improved insomnia severity scores
  • No difference in sleep onset latency
  • Effects emerged within first week

Limitations

  • Small sample size
  • Short duration
  • Participants could identify lens color
  • Insomnia symptoms, not diagnosed disorder

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Source

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DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2017.10.015