Effects of Vascular Photobiomodulation on Glycemic Control in Patients With Type II Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVEThis study aimed to evaluate the effects of laser photobiomodulation (PBM) using the systemic vascular technique (VPBM) on glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) undergoing conventional pharmacological treatment.

METHODSThis prospective single-arm clinical study was conducted at Centro Universitário UNITOP, in Palmas, Tocantins, Brazil. Individuals diagnosed with T2DM who had been receiving continuous oral hypoglycemic therapy with metformin (500 mg to 850 mg) for at least 6 months were included. PBM was applied transcutaneously over the radial artery using a low-level laser device emitting red light, aiming to promote systemic vascular irradiation. Capillary blood glucose levels were monitored through self-monitoring, while fasting plasma glucose and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were analyzed in a certified clinical laboratory throughout the follow-up period.

RESULTSIn type 2 diabetes patients, VPBM induced significant acute reductions in capillary blood glucose immediately after all sessions (from averages over 180-220 mg/dL down to 119-129 mg/dL; p ≤ 0.0019). It also significantly lowered baseline fasting blood glucose over the 6-week protocol from 161.40 ± 32.63 mg/dL to 130.40 + 37.62 mg/dL (p = 0.0339). However, it showed no statistically significant effects on HbA1c: 7.61% to 7.65% or systolic blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONSystemic application of low-level laser therapy through the vascular technique, combined with standard oral hypoglycemic therapy, may contribute to improved glycemic control in individuals with T2DM. PBM associated with VPBM appears to represent a promising complementary therapeutic strategy for metabolic management in this population.

Abstract from PubMed