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Blue light blocking glasses

What are blue light blocking glasses for bipolar disorder?

Exposure to blue light affects circadian rhythm, and night time exposure can lead to insomnia via dysregulation of melatonin. Blue light blocking glasses have been found to prevent light-induced suppression of melatonin release. The glasses are worn continuously for two to three hours before turning the lights off to sleep with the aim of improving sleep. It is thought this may also improve mood in people with bipolar disorder. 

What is the evidence for blue light blocking glasses?

Moderate to low quality evidence suggests blue light blocking glasses may improve mania symptoms and sleep in people with bipolar disorder, although sample sizes are small. More research is needed.

Also see the topic on melatonin for the symptoms of bipolar disorder.

November 2021

Image: ©Alina Rosanova – stock.adobe.com

Last updated at: 6:20 pm, 9th November 2021
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