Effects of Vascular Photobiomodulation on Glycemic Control in Patients With Type II Diabetes Mellitus: A Prospective Single-Arm Clinical Study.
Leandro Augusto Almeida, Anne Missrie, Victor Augusto Ramos Fernandes et al.
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In 30 seconds
This prospective, single-arm clinical study evaluated vascular photobiomodulation (VPBM) alongside ongoing metformin therapy in people with type 2 diabetes. Red-light irradiation was applied over the radial artery, with glucose measures assessed during a 6-week protocol. Capillary glucose fell immediately after each session, from averages over 180-220 mg/dL to 119-129 mg/dL (p ≤ 0.0019), and fasting glucose decreased from 161.40 ± 32.63 mg/dL to 130.40 + 37.62 mg/dL (p = 0.0339). HbA1c and systolic blood pressure did not change significantly.
Key findings
- Capillary glucose decreased after all sessions, from averages over 180-220 mg/dL to 119-129 mg/dL (p ≤ 0.0019).
- Over 6 weeks, fasting glucose fell from 161.40 ± 32.63 mg/dL to 130.40 + 37.62 mg/dL (p = 0.0339).
- HbA1c changed from 7.61% to 7.65%, with no statistically significant effect; systolic blood pressure also showed no significant effect.
Why it matters
The findings suggest that vascular photobiomodulation may have short-term effects on measured glucose when added to ongoing oral therapy. The lack of a significant HbA1c change means the study does not establish improved longer-term glycemic control. These results may inform further evaluation of this complementary approach, while distinguishing immediate glucose responses from sustained metabolic benefit.
What to keep in mind
The prospective study was single-arm, without a comparator group, and followed participants for 6 weeks; it therefore cannot establish that VPBM caused the observed glucose changes or demonstrate longer-term benefit.