Could a mood drug dull the Brain's reaction to light?

NCT ID NCT07750925

Not yet recruiting Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Northumbria University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 06, 2026 · Last updated Aug 07, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial investigates whether taking lithium for a week changes how the eyes and brain respond to light in healthy adults aged 18 to 40. Participants will undergo light exposure sessions with and without lithium, while researchers measure melatonin suppression, alertness, mood, and brain activity. The study aims to uncover how lithium affects light sensitivity at the retina and in central pathways, which could shed light on its role in treating bipolar disorder.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: lithium carbonate (Priadel)
What this could lead to: If lithium alters light responses, it could help explain how mood stabilizers work and why light therapy helps some people with bipolar disorder.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early study in healthy volunteers, not patients. Results may not apply to people with bipolar disorder, and lithium can have side effects.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar disorder Photophobia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

BIPOLAR HEALTHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Northumbria University

Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE1 8SG, United Kingdom

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