A triple-blinded, sham controlled study of transcranial photobiomodulation for Parkinson’s disease symptoms

A number of studies have suggested that PBM can have positive effects on the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The objective of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) for Parkinson’s disease symptoms, including motor symptoms, as measured by UPDRS, and sense of smell and patient reported outcomes. A 20+20 double-blind, randomised, sham controlled trial was conducted over 24 weeks, with Group 1 having sham helmet for 12 weeks and then active helmet for 12 weeks and Group 2 having active helmet for 12 weeks and then no treatment for 12 weeks. The clinical trial was conducted entirely remotely during the COVID-19 restrictions. Despite a large placebo effect, the treatment was found to be both safe and effective, with a clinically and statistically significant reduction in UPDRS scores. There were also improvements in some participants sense of smell and quality of life.