During light therapy you should keep to a regular sleep/wake schedule and avoid sleeping in on weekends or holidays. At the indicated time of day, the light device should be placed on a table or counter so that you can sit comfortably at 20 inches from the light. [LIGHT DEVICE STANDS ON TABLETOP. The light device comes with a metal stand, which rests in a slot on the back of the device. Just above the slot there is a hole. Insert the end of the stand into the hole in the back of the device, so that the device stands on its own on a table surface.] The device also comes with an adapter that needs to be plugged in. Observe precautions appropriate to any electrical device, including locating the device where the cord does not create a hazard. Insert the adapter end into the hole on the lower left side of the device. Once the device is plugged in, and you are ready to begin treatment, push the “Power” key, which is on the front-center of the device. The light will turn on and stay on for 30 minutes. You need the full 30 minutes of exposure so be sure to stay seated with light directed at your face after you turn the device on. You should sit facing the light device so that the light falls on the area of your face around your eyes. Each time you use the light, MEASURE the distance with the measuring tool provided to be certain the bridge of your nose is 20 inches from the center of the lighted area of the device. You can read or eat while sitting near the light, but your eyes must be open for the effect to occur – do not wear sunglasses or photo-grey lenses. You cannot sleep during your light exposure! You do not need to stare directly at the light device, but it must provide illumination to the area of your eyes. You should use the light for 30 minutes per day, according to the directions, but do not get up extra early to use the light because that can cause you to shift your internal (circadian) clock too dramatically. Some people experience mild headaches, nausea, or eye strain when using the light. These symptoms usually occur at the beginning of treatment, and get better in a few days. It is possible to get an “overdose” of light, which may feel similar to having too much caffeine. If you experience one or more of these symptoms, contact the Study Doctor to determine the proper course of action. Light does not have the same effect at all times of day. Do not use the light device at night near bedtime, as the light exposure can disturb sleep. If you need to miss a morning, it is better to wait until the next day than to substitute another time of day. Occasionally people report feeling irritable, or euphoric, or being “too high” when treated with light therapy. If this happens, the treatment should be stopped. You should notify your study doctor right away to determine proper course of action. If you need to see a doctor for some reason or to be treated with any changes in dose or new medications during the study, please let your treating doctor know that you are participating in a research study and also notify the study doctor as soon as possible.
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