Progress in study looking at effect of light therapy on opioid use disorder

ISSUED: 6 May 2024
MEDIA CONTACT: Cecelia Mason

SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV - Shepherd University announced phase II of an innovative study exploring the potential of Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy for opioid use disorder.

Led by Shepherd's own Dr. Jennifer Flora and Dr. Kelly Watson Huffer, this groundbreaking study is the first global transcranial research focusing specifically on PBM therapy for this purpose.

In PBM therapy, a practitioner applies low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes to the surface of the body to improve tissue repair and reduce pain and inflammation. PBM is seen as a way to treat some pain-causing medical conditions instead of using opioids.

Dr. Mary J.C. Hendrix, Shepherd University President, said it is exciting to be at the forefront of this work and to have so many partners on hand to announce the next phase.

"We are deeply grateful to our state and local partners for their support of Shepherd University's PBM Center that allows us to provide a promising new approach to treat Opioid Use Disorder," Hendrix said. "The landmark collaborative study, revealed today, brings new hope to the field - and offers a pharmaceutical-free therapy for individuals in need of extricating themselves from opioids."

Local and state partners were on hand when Flora announced phase II of the study at the Suzanne Shipley Wellness Center on May 6.
Flora said the results from phase I have shown promising outcomes, with participants experiencing significant reductions in opioid cravings and depression symptoms.

"This study uses an innovative, non-invasive light therapy we believe can significantly help individuals suffering from opioid use disorder and depression," Flora said. "Phase II aims to further validate this."

During phase II, participants from the Berkeley Day Report Center undergo bi-weekly PBM sessions using a custom-built helmet fitted with diodes emitting near-infrared light at a specific wavelength.

"At that wavelength, light penetrates brain tissues to stimulate recovery and improve neurological function, "Flora said. "The stimulation is thought to improve cellular production, promoting better brain function and potentially rebalancing the brain's chemistry disrupted by opioid addiction."

Guests included Executive Director of the Jefferson Day Report Center, Kelly Franklin; West Virginia Attorney, General Patrick Morrisey; West Virginia Auditor, John "JB" McCuskey; and Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney, Matt Harvey.

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