Opóźniony fazowy sen
Leczenie

Opóźniony fazowy sen (DSPD) to zaburzenie rytmu okołodobowego charakteryzujące się przesunięciem fazy snu i czuwania, co skutkuje trudnościami w zasypianiu i budzeniu się o konwencjonalnych porach. Leczenie DSPD wymaga podejścia wielokierunkowego, obejmującego fototerapię (ekspozycja na światło o natężeniu 6000-10000 luksów przez 30-60 minut rano), suplementację melatoniny (dawki 0,5-3 mg podawane 4-5 godzin przed aktualnym czasem zasypiania), chronoterapię (stopniowe przesuwanie godzin snu), poprawę higieny snu oraz terapię poznawczo-behawioralną (CBT). Fototerapia i unikanie ekspozycji na niebieskie światło wieczorem są kluczowe dla przesunięcia fazy snu, a melatonina i jej agoniści (np. ramelteon 4 mg) wspomagają regulację rytmu. Chronoterapia wymaga dyscypliny i może być skuteczna zwłaszcza przy opóźnieniu fazy powyżej 3 godzin, jednak istnieje ryzyko nawrotów, które występują u około 50% pacjentów.

Leczenie opóźnionego fazowego snu

Opóźniony fazowy sen (Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder, DSPD) to zaburzenie rytmu okołodobowego charakteryzujące się znacznym opóźnieniem naturalnego cyklu snu i czuwania. Pacjenci z tym zaburzeniem mają trudności z zasypianiem o konwencjonalnych porach i budzeniem się o pożądanych godzinach porannych. Skuteczne leczenie wymaga wielokierunkowego podejścia, które ma na celu dostosowanie wewnętrznego zegara biologicznego pacjenta do bardziej konwencjonalnego harmonogramu.12

Fototerapia i terapia światłem

Terapia światłem (fototerapia) jest jedną z głównych metod leczenia opóźnionego fazowego snu. Polega ona na ekspozycji pacjenta na jasne światło o określonej porze dnia, najczęściej rano, w celu regulacji rytmu okołodobowego. Zaleca się stosowanie specjalnie zaprojektowanych lamp emitujących jasne światło o natężeniu 6000-10000 luksów przez 30-60 minut każdego poranka, najlepiej bezpośrednio po przebudzeniu.123

Czas ekspozycji na światło jest krytyczny dla skuteczności terapii. Dla pacjentów z DSPD, światło powinno być dostarczane do siatkówki jak najszybciej po spontanicznym przebudzeniu, aby osiągnąć pożądany efekt przesunięcia fazy snu.4 Ekspozycja na jasne światło w godzinach porannych może pomóc przesunąć wewnętrzny zegar do przodu, ułatwiając wcześniejsze zasypianie i budzenie się.56

Równie ważne jest unikanie silnego światła, zwłaszcza o niebieskim spektrum, w godzinach wieczornych. Wielu specjalistów zaleca ograniczenie ekspozycji na światło z urządzeń elektronicznych (telewizory, komputery, smartfony) co najmniej na godzinę przed planowanym czasem snu.78 Ograniczenie jasnego światła wieczorem w połączeniu z poranną fototerapią tworzy kompleksowe podejście do regulacji rytmu okołodobowego.9

Suplementacja melatoniny

Melatonina jest hormonem wydzielanym przez szyszynkę, który odgrywa kluczową rolę w regulacji cyklu snu i czuwania. Suplementacja melatoniny jest często zalecana w leczeniu opóźnionego fazowego snu.12 Dawkowanie i czas podawania melatoniny są kluczowe dla skuteczności terapii i powinny być ustalane indywidualnie przez lekarza specjalistę.7

W terapii DSPD melatonina jest zwykle przyjmowana we wczesnych godzinach wieczornych, około 4-5 godzin przed aktualnym czasem zasypiania.1011 Badania wykazały, że skuteczność melatoniny w przesuwaniu fazy snu zależy od czasu jej podania – wcześniejsze podanie wiąże się z większym przesunięciem fazy.11 Dawki melatoniny stosowane w terapii DSPD wynoszą zwykle od 0,5 mg do 3 mg.129

Wytyczne American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) z 2015 roku zalecają stosowanie melatoniny w leczeniu DSPD u dorosłych, dzieci i młodzieży, zarówno z współistniejącymi zaburzeniami psychicznymi, jak i bez nich, choć dostępne dowody naukowe są ograniczone ze względu na niewielką liczbę wysokiej jakości badań.1213

Warto zaznaczyć, że obecnie dostępne są również agonisty receptora melatoninowego, takie jak ramelteon czy tasimelteon, które mogą być przepisywane w leczeniu zaburzeń rytmu okołodobowego.14 W jednym z badań wykazano skuteczność ramelteonu w dawce 4 mg w połączeniu z fototerapią w leczeniu DSPD.1516

Chronoterapia

Chronoterapia to metoda behawioralna mająca na celu przestawienie zegara biologicznego poprzez stopniowe modyfikowanie godzin snu i czuwania. W leczeniu DSPD stosowane są dwa główne podejścia do chronoterapii:217

  1. Metoda opóźniania fazy snu – polega na stopniowym opóźnianiu czasu zasypiania o 1-3 godziny co kilka dni, aż do osiągnięcia pożądanej pory snu. Następnie ustala się stały harmonogram snu i czuwania. Ta metoda jest bardziej skuteczna, gdy faza snu jest opóźniona o więcej niż 3 godziny w stosunku do pożądanej pory snu.1819
  2. Metoda przyspieszania fazy snu – polega na stopniowym przesuwaniu czasu zasypiania na wcześniejszą porę, zwykle o 15-30 minut każdej nocy, aż do osiągnięcia pożądanej pory snu.1820

Chronoterapia wymaga dużej dyscypliny i przestrzegania ścisłego harmonogramu, ale może być skuteczna dla osób z ciężkim DSPD.19 Po osiągnięciu pożądanego harmonogramu snu, kluczowe jest utrzymanie stałego rytmu, aby zapobiec powrotowi do dawnego wzorca.21 Warto zauważyć, że niektórzy pacjenci z DSPD, którzy początkowo reagują na chronoterapię, mogą stopniowo powracać do starego wzorca snu, co może wymagać powtórzenia terapii co kilka miesięcy.21

Badania wskazują, że leczenie szpitalne z zastosowaniem chronoterapii wykazuje wysoką skuteczność w resetowaniu rytmu okołodobowego, z odnotowaną remisją sięgającą 100% w jednym z badań, choć wskaźnik nawrotów po wypisie wynosił około 50%.2223

Poprawa higieny snu

Wprowadzenie zdrowych nawyków związanych ze snem, określanych jako higiena snu, jest podstawowym elementem terapii opóźnionego fazowego snu.1 Dobre praktyki higieny snu obejmują:187

  • Utrzymywanie regularnego harmonogramu snu i budzenia się, także w weekendy1
  • Unikanie drzemek w ciągu dnia1
  • Unikanie kofeiny, alkoholu i nikotyny, szczególnie w godzinach wieczornych118
  • Unikanie intensywnego wysiłku fizycznego przed snem18
  • Stworzenie komfortowego, cichego i ciemnego środowiska do snu24
  • Ograniczenie ekspozycji na urządzenia elektroniczne na co najmniej godzinę przed snem1725
  • Wprowadzenie rutyny wieczornej, która sprzyja relaksacji i przygotowuje organizm do snu7

Poprawa higieny snu sama w sobie może nie być wystarczająca do leczenia DSPD, ale jest ważnym uzupełnieniem innych metod terapeutycznych.5 Regularne stosowanie zasad higieny snu pomaga wzmocnić zegar biologiczny i utrzymać osiągnięte efekty innych terapii.17

Terapia poznawczo-behawioralna

Terapia poznawczo-behawioralna (CBT) jest coraz częściej stosowana w leczeniu zaburzeń rytmu okołodobowego, w tym DSPD.26 CBT pomaga pacjentom identyfikować i zmieniać myśli i zachowania, które mogą przyczyniać się do problemów ze snem.27

W kontekście DSPD, terapia poznawczo-behawioralna może obejmować:178

  • Edukację na temat rytmu okołodobowego i fizjologii snu
  • Techniki redukcji lęku związanego ze snem
  • Strategie radzenia sobie z negatywnymi myślami i przekonaniami dotyczącymi snu
  • Techniki relaksacyjne ułatwiające zasypianie
  • Wsparcie w przestrzeganiu zaleconego harmonogramu snu i czuwania

Badania wskazują, że połączenie terapii poznawczo-behawioralnej z fototerapią może być skuteczne w poprawie snu u młodzieży z DSPD.28 Dodatkowo, kompleksowe interwencje obejmujące CBT i wywiad motywacyjny okazały się bardziej skuteczne niż sama psychoedukacja w poprawie snu u osób z wieczornym chronotypem.28

Specjalistyczna forma CBT ukierunkowana na DSPD jest obecnie rozwijana i może stanowić optymalne behawioralne uzupełnienie leczenia.8 Terapia poznawczo-behawioralna dla bezsenności (CBT-I) może być również pomocna, szczególnie jeśli DSPD współwystępuje z bezsennością lub gdy lęk związany ze snem pogarsza objawy DSPD.2729

Leczenie farmakologiczne

Oprócz melatoniny i jej agonistów, w leczeniu DSPD mogą być stosowane również inne leki, choć ich skuteczność w tym wskazaniu jest mniej udokumentowana:30

  • Modafinil – lek o działaniu stymulującym, który może być stosowany u pacjentów z DSPD cierpiących z powodu nadmiernej senności w ciągu dnia. Modafinil jest przyjmowany rano, aby poprawić funkcjonowanie w ciągu dnia.2030
  • Leki nasenne – choć nie są rekomendowane jako główna metoda leczenia DSPD, mogą być czasem przepisywane, aby pomóc pacjentom zasnąć o pożądanej porze. Należy jednak zauważyć, że wytyczne kliniczne nie zalecają stosowania leków nasennych w leczeniu DSPD, a badania nie wykazały ich skuteczności w przesuwaniu fazy snu.169
  • Witamina B12 – niektórzy specjaliści sugerują, że duże dawki witaminy B12 mogą być pomocne w regulacji rytmu okołodobowego, choć dowody na ich skuteczność są ograniczone.31

Warto podkreślić, że leczenie farmakologiczne powinno być stosowane z ostrożnością i pod nadzorem lekarza specjalisty, gdyż leki mogą powodować działania niepożądane i nie zawsze są skuteczne w leczeniu DSPD.32

Kompleksowe podejście i indywidualizacja terapii

Skuteczne leczenie opóźnionego fazowego snu wymaga kompleksowego podejścia, które łączy różne metody terapeutyczne dostosowane do indywidualnych potrzeb pacjenta.8 Badania wskazują, że połączenie fototerapii, suplementacji melatoniny i poprawy higieny snu może przynieść najlepsze efekty.12

Plan leczenia powinien uwzględniać:3334

  • Stopień opóźnienia fazy snu – osoby z nieznacznym opóźnieniem (mniej niż 3 godziny) mogą korzystać z innych metod niż osoby z bardziej znaczącym opóźnieniem7
  • Wiek pacjenta – metody leczenia mogą różnić się w zależności od grupy wiekowej23
  • Współistniejące zaburzenia – DSPD często współwystępuje z depresją, ADHD, zaburzeniami ze spektrum autyzmu czy zaburzeniami obsesyjno-kompulsywnymi, co może wpływać na wybór metod leczenia198
  • Styl życia i preferencje pacjenta – niektóre metody, jak chronoterapia, wymagają znacznej reorganizacji codziennego funkcjonowania3536

Leczenie DSPD powinno być prowadzone przez specjalistów w dziedzinie medycyny snu, którzy mogą opracować spersonalizowany plan terapeutyczny i monitorować postępy.3738 Ważne jest, aby pacjenci mieli realistyczne oczekiwania – DSPD jest zaburzeniem przewlekłym, które wymaga długoterminowego zarządzania, a nie jednorazowej interwencji.2

Utrzymanie efektów terapii i zapobieganie nawrotom

Po osiągnięciu pożądanego harmonogramu snu, kluczowe jest utrzymanie regularnego rytmu, aby zapobiec powrotowi do opóźnionego wzorca.1 Badania wskazują, że nawet 50% pacjentów może doświadczyć nawrotu DSPD po skutecznym leczeniu.22

Strategie zapobiegania nawrotom obejmują:178

  • Utrzymywanie regularnego harmonogramu snu i czuwania, także w weekendy i dni wolne
  • Kontynuowanie ekspozycji na jasne światło w godzinach porannych
  • Unikanie jasnego światła w godzinach wieczornych
  • Okresowe stosowanie melatoniny, gdy pojawią się pierwsze oznaki przesunięcia fazy snu
  • Regularne wizyty kontrolne u specjalisty w celu monitorowania stanu pacjenta i dostosowywania terapii

Niektórzy pacjenci mogą wymagać stałego stosowania fototerapii lub melatoniny, aby utrzymać osiągnięte efekty.3940 W badaniu z zastosowaniem kombinacji melatoniny i fototerapii wykazano, że takie połączenie jest istotne dla utrzymania korzyści terapeutycznych po 3 miesiącach i uniknięcia nawrotu opóźnionego harmonogramu snu.12

Ważne jest również, aby pacjenci byli świadomi czynników, które mogą zwiększać ryzyko nawrotu, takich jak wiek poniżej 18 lat, wczesny początek zaburzenia (przed 16 rokiem życia) oraz brak motywacji do przestrzegania zaleceń terapeutycznych.23

Ograniczenia i wyzwania w leczeniu opóźnionego fazowego snu

Pomimo dostępności różnych metod terapeutycznych, leczenie DSPD napotyka na pewne ograniczenia i wyzwania:41

  • Indywidualna odpowiedź na leczenie – nie wszyscy pacjenci reagują w ten sam sposób na dostępne metody terapeutyczne41
  • Trudności w przestrzeganiu zaleceń – niektóre metody, jak chronoterapia czy fototerapia, wymagają znacznej dyscypliny i reorganizacji codziennego funkcjonowania4243
  • Brak poprawy subiektywnej – niektórzy pacjenci pomimo przesunięcia fazy snu nadal nie czują się wypoczęci po śnie w nowym harmonogramie41
  • Ograniczone dowody naukowe – wiele badań dotyczących leczenia DSPD ma krótki okres obserwacji i skupia się głównie na przesunięciu fazy snu, a nie na poprawie jakości życia czy funkcjonowania4144
  • Współistniejące zaburzenia – DSPD często współwystępuje z innymi zaburzeniami, które mogą komplikować leczenie819

Warto podkreślić, że konwencjonalne metody leczenia bezsenności, takie jak restrykcja snu czy kontrola bodźców, mogą nie być skuteczne w leczeniu DSPD, gdyż nie adresują podstawowego problemu, jakim jest przesunięcie rytmu okołodobowego.5 Dlatego tak ważne jest prawidłowe rozpoznanie DSPD i wdrożenie odpowiedniego leczenia ukierunkowanego na regulację zegara biologicznego.5

Podsumowanie aktualnych wytycznych klinicznych

Amerykańska Akademia Medycyny Snu (AASM) opublikowała w 2015 roku wytyczne kliniczne dotyczące leczenia zaburzeń rytmu okołodobowego, w tym DSPD.1312 Główne zalecenia obejmują:

  • Melatonina – rekomendowana w leczeniu DSPD u dorosłych, dzieci i młodzieży, zarówno z współistniejącymi zaburzeniami psychicznymi, jak i bez nich (rekomendacja słaba ze względu na ograniczoną liczbę badań wysokiej jakości)1244
  • Fototerapia – niewystarczające dowody, aby rekomendować fototerapię w leczeniu DSPD, choć badania praktyczne wskazują na jej skuteczność12
  • Chronoterapia – niewystarczające dowody, aby rekomendować chronoterapię w leczeniu DSPD12
  • Leczenie skojarzone – badania wskazują, że połączenie różnych metod terapeutycznych może przynieść najlepsze efekty, jednak potrzebne są dalsze badania w tym zakresie44

Wytyczne podkreślają potrzebę przeprowadzenia większej liczby wysokiej jakości badań klinicznych, aby lepiej określić skuteczność dostępnych metod leczenia DSPD.44 Do czasu uzyskania bardziej jednoznacznych dowodów, leczenie DSPD powinno być prowadzone empirycznie, z uwzględnieniem indywidualnych potrzeb pacjenta.45

Perspektywy na przyszłość

Badania nad leczeniem opóźnionego fazowego snu są nadal prowadzone, a nowe podejścia terapeutyczne są rozwijane. Obiecujące kierunki badań obejmują:3546

  • Rozwój technologii opartych na urządzeniach mobilnych i noszonych (wearables) do monitorowania i regulacji rytmu okołodobowego3536
  • Aplikacje typu „light coach”, które pomagają osobom z DSPD zrozumieć, kiedy potrzebują ekspozycji na światło36
  • Bardziej spersonalizowane podejście do leczenia, uwzględniające charakterystykę fizjologiczną i genetyczną pacjenta47
  • Rozwój specjalistycznych form terapii poznawczo-behawioralnej ukierunkowanych na DSPD8
  • Badania nad optymalnymi dawkami i czasem podawania melatoniny i jej agonistów16

Ważnym kierunkiem rozwoju jest również zwiększenie świadomości społecznej i medycznej na temat DSPD, co może przyczynić się do wcześniejszego rozpoznania i wdrożenia odpowiedniego leczenia.36 Lepsze zrozumienie fizjologii rytmu okołodobowego i czynników wpływających na jego regulację może prowadzić do opracowania bardziej skutecznych metod terapeutycznych w przyszłości.8

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  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Delayed sleep phase – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/delayed-sleep-phase/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353341
    A health care professional works with you to create a treatment plan that can help adjust your sleep and wake times. […] Your plan may include: […] Improving sleep habits. Making lifestyle changes can improve your sleep habits. This is known as sleep hygiene. To practice good sleep hygiene, go to bed and wake on a regular schedule, including on the weekends. It’s best not to take naps during the day. Don’t drink caffeine or alcohol near bedtime. And don’t use tobacco products. […] Melatonin supplements. Melatonin is a hormone that plays a role in the sleep-wake cycle. You may be prescribed a melatonin supplement to take in the early evening. This can help adjust your circadian rhythm to go to sleep earlier. […] Light therapy. Light exposure using a light box in the morning may adjust your circadian rhythm. […] Chronotherapy. For some people, health care professionals prescribe a sleep schedule that delays bedtime by 1 to 2.5 hours every six days. This is done until the desired bedtime is reached. You need to maintain your sleep schedule once it is established.
  • #2 Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS): Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14295-delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome-dsps
    Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) is a shift in your biological clock that makes it difficult to fall asleep and wake up. Treatment is available to help you reset your internal clock. […] A healthcare provider may recommend the following to treat delayed sleep phase syndrome: Changing your sleeping habits, Adjusting your bedtime schedule, Light therapy, Taking medications. […] Some healthcare providers recommend light therapy as a treatment for delayed sleep phase syndrome. You’ll need to purchase a special light box to participate in light therapy. […] Your healthcare provider may recommend taking an over-the-counter melatonin supplement to help shift your circadian rhythm. […] Delayed sleep phase syndrome doesn’t go away. Treatment is ongoing to manage it. […] There’s no cure for delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS). Treatment is effective at improving your sleep to reduce your symptoms. […] If you have a delayed sleep phase syndrome diagnosis and the changes to your sleep routine aren’t helping your symptoms, let your healthcare provider know so they can help you make adjustments to your treatment plan.
  • #2 Treatments for Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome | Stanford Health Care
    https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/sleep/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome/treatments.html
    Those suffering from delayed sleep phase syndrome often only seek the help of a sleep specialist after they’ve unsuccessfully tried to change their sleep schedule on their own. Sleep specialists use two particular treatment methods to help patients with this syndrome, chronotherapy and light therapy. […] This technique aims to reset the circadian clock by slowly delaying the bedtime (and hence the sleep period) by about two hours every few days. […] A light therapy used to manage circadian rhythm disorders such as delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS), by gradually enabling a shift to normal societal sleeping patterns.
  • #3 Sleeplessness and Circadian Rhythm Disorder Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations, Bright Light Therapy, Behavioral Therapy
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1188944-treatment
    Therapy for circadian rhythm disturbances is largely behavioral. Light therapy has been shown to be an effective modifier of circadian cycles. Mixed modalities may be effective in elderly patients with dementia who have irregular sleep-wake rhythms. A combination of planned sleep scheduling, timed light exposure, and timed melatonin administration can be helpful. […] Circadian rhythm disturbances respond very well to light therapy, especially bright light (600 lux). For entrainment purposes, bright room light over time may be sufficient; however, a higher intensity of light (6000 lux over 3060 min) is often necessary to accomplish acute phase shifts. […] This behavioral treatment consists of a gradual shift in sleep time in accordance with the patient’s tendency. Thus, in delayed sleep-phase syndrome (DSPS), a progressive delay of 3 hours per day is prescribed, followed by strict maintenance of a regular bedtime hour once the desired schedule is achieved.
  • #4 Bright Light Therapy | UT Medical Center
    https://www.utmedicalcenter.org/treatments/bright-light-therapy
    Bright Light Therapy is used to manage circadian rhythm disorders such as Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS), a condition which shifts the normal sleeping pattern outside what is considered the social norm. […] Bright Light Therapy is used to gradually shift sleeping patterns to what we consider normal. For treatment, the timing of light exposure is critical. For DSPS, the light must be delivered to the retina as soon after spontaneous awakening as possible to achieve the desired effect. […] Light therapy also called phototherapy uses a full-spectrum lamp or portable visor, usually 10,000 lux in intensity, for 30-90 minutes at the patients usual time of spontaneous awakening, or shortly before. […] For maintenance, some patients continue the treatment indefinitely, while some reduce their daily treatment to 15 minutes.
  • #5 Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome: Signs, ADHD Link, TreatmentsFooterLogo
    https://www.additudemag.com/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome-signs-treatments-adhd/?srsltid=AfmBOorFM0JFj-VZPuyuI1imPS967hwYhFvGelq3cCrBEaI4-eL_rF-P
    Light therapy for DSPS involves increasing exposure to bright light after waking up and reducing light exposure as much as possible before bed — along with gradually shifting sleep-wake times — to regulate the internal clock. […] Talk to your doctor about taking melatonin to manage DSPS, as carefully timed melatonin administration can aid in shifting circadian rhythm.
  • #5 Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome: Signs, ADHD Link, TreatmentsFooterLogo
    https://www.additudemag.com/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome-signs-treatments-adhd/?srsltid=AfmBOorFM0JFj-VZPuyuI1imPS967hwYhFvGelq3cCrBEaI4-eL_rF-P
    Delayed sleep phase syndrome is a sleep disorder that disrupts one’s ability to sleep and wake at conventional times. DSPS is commonly seen with ADHD. […] Proper treatment of DSPS comprises specialized approaches like light therapy and melatonin supplementation, which aim to regulate the internal body clock and improve sleep quality. […] Talk to your doctor or a sleep specialist if you suspect that your sleep problems are due to DSPS. A proper diagnosis is critical, as DSPS has its own distinct physiological component that needs to be treated directly. Managing DSPS requires knowledge of circadian physiology, as effective interventions for this sleep disorder target the internal clock. […] Standard interventions for sleep difficulties (like those recommended for insomnia), such as sleep hygiene, sleep restriction, and stimulus control strategies, as well as sedative medication, are unlikely to be effective for individuals with DSPS.
  • #6 How to treat Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome — Sleep Cycle
    https://sleepcycle.com/sleep-talk/identifying-and-treating-delayed-sleep-phase-disorder
    Bright light therapy is a simple but effective method of resetting the bodys circadian rhythm. With this treatment, the individual is exposed to bright light early in the morning, immediately after waking up. In the evening (especially the hours before bedtime) the opposite method is applied in other words, bright, outdoor light is avoided. By doing so, a foundation for improved sleep routines can be established. […] Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain that controls your bodys sleep and wake functions. The body produces more at night and the amount produced is also affected by our exposure to light. Melatonin supplements can be used to help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and shift the bodys natural sleep pattern. This treatment is typically taken in the evening to help promote sleepiness and to reset the bodys natural circadian rhythm. Melatonin supplements are often prescribed for insomnia or DSPS and in some cases, even to counter jetlag.
  • #7 Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder | Boston Children’s Hospital
    https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/delayed-sleep-wake-phase-disorder
    Light therapy. This method involves exposing your child or teen to a broad-spectrum light source (typically a light box) for a period of time each morning. We also advise avoiding melatonin-suppressing blue light, especially from screens, in the evening hours. […] Melatonin. This is a synthetic form of your body’s natural biological sleep signal. When taken late in the day, melatonin may help shift the fall asleep time earlier. The dose of melatonin and the time that it is taken are both important, so this should be discussed with your child’s provider before starting melatonin. […] Sleep hygiene. It’s critical that children understand the importance of a regular sleep schedule and principles of healthy sleep, such as maintaining consistent sleep schedules on weekends and weekdays, avoiding naps and caffeine, having a bedtime routine that is calm and sleep-inducing, and turning off electronic media an hour before bedtime. […] Specialists at Boston Children’s Hospital’s Sleep Center are experienced in treating children who have DSWPD, so your whole family can get a good night’s sleep.
  • #7 Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder | Boston Children’s Hospital
    https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/delayed-sleep-wake-phase-disorder
    If your child or adolescent has been diagnosed with DSWPD, there are several treatment options, depending on the severity of the problem, your child’s general health, and other factors. It requires significant effort and commitment on the part of the child or adolescent. The goal of treatment is to “reset” the internal clock to a more normal schedule that is more compatible with the demands of school or work. Because DSWPD can be complex, treatment should usually be handled by a sleep medicine specialist. […] Treatment of DSWPD may involve some or all of the following: […] Adjustment of sleep schedules. If your child’s sleep is delayed by less than three hours, shifting bed and wake times to earlier in the day may solve the problem. If the child is falling asleep more than three hours later than the desired bedtime, shifting bedtime and wake times two to three hours later each day may be the best option until your child reaches a target bedtime/wake time schedule.
  • #8 Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder – Nesbitt – Journal of Thoracic Disease
    https://jtd.amegroups.org/article/view/18434/html
    As well as appropriately dosed and timed Melatonin, equal importance should be paid to the phase-delaying and Melatonin suppressing effects of evening light in individuals with DSWPD. In a few patients, a significant phase advance may be bought about by just minimizing exposure to evening (artificial, indoor) light, from dusk, and analogies can be made in clinic to the camping experiments described above. […] While avoiding the more potent phase-shifting (delaying) effect of evening light is arguably the more important light paradigm, timed morning light (phase-advancing) exposure is highly beneficial. Morning light exposure is likely to be most helpful in phase-advancing, or promoting an additive phase-advancing effect together with Melatonin and evening light avoidance, if it is delivered as soon as possible (preferably immediately) after waking.
  • #8 Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder – Nesbitt – Journal of Thoracic Disease
    https://jtd.amegroups.org/article/view/18434/html
    Treatment of co-morbid insomnia is also very important, and patients may well benefit from a course of cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia once a target phase advance has been approximated. […] DSWPD focused cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is also being developed, and indeed a tailored approach combining aspects of both CBT for insomnia, CBT for DSWPD and general sleep and circadian psychoeducation (chrono-education) is likely to be the optimum behavioural adjunct for treatment. […] Relapses in treatment and decompensation are common, and patients should be counselled for this eventuality, and encouraged to follow their original treatment plans should this occur.
  • #8 Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder – Nesbitt – Journal of Thoracic Disease
    https://jtd.amegroups.org/article/view/18434/html
    A multifactorial approach is needed for the treatment of DSWPD, which addresses initial phase advancement (initiation), subsequent phase retention (maintenance), and due consideration of other disorders which may be associated with, or exacerbating, the problem, most notably ADHD, ASD, affective disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). It is important to establish a balance between an ideal and realistic sleep onset and offset time with patients, to manage expectation, and spend quite some time explaining the rationale and steps of treatment. […] While Melatonin is the traditional mainstay, and perhaps best described, treatment for DSWPD, its use is seldom systematically prescribed or adhered to. In the UK and EU, Melatonin is a prescription-only medication, used largely off label as an unlicensed treatment for DSWPD, whereas in other countries, most notably the USA, it is considered a supplement, and freely available off-the-shelf. Currently, in the UK at least, the main preparation of Melatonin is a controlled-release 2 mg tablet. Other preparations, such as 3 mg tablets of immediate-release Melatonin, or specially manufactured liquid Melatonin, are typically only available through specialist centres and pharmacies. Melatonin is generally very well tolerated with few side-effects, although given lack of data, rather than safety concerns, its use is avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • #9 What Treatment for Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder?
    https://www.patientcareonline.com/view/what-treatment-delayed-sleep-phase-disorder
    During the course of bright light therapy, patients are instructed to avoid napping, to adhere to sleep hygiene principles, and to avoid exposure to bright light sources such as television and computer monitors prior to bedtime. […] Hypnotics (option A) are not indicated for the treatment of individuals younger than age 18 and have not been shown to be effective in DSPD. […] The maintenance of regular, morning, awakening times (option D) is important following the completion of treatment, but, as a sole measure, is unlikely to be effective in this disorder.
  • #9 What Treatment for Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder?
    https://www.patientcareonline.com/view/what-treatment-delayed-sleep-phase-disorder
    Which of the following methods would be most effective for this young man? A. Short half-life hypnotic at bedtime B. Strict adherence to regular bedtimes at 11 pm C. Morning bright light therapy D. Ensure consistent 8 am awakening times daily […] Answer: C-morning bright light therapy […] The first therapy described for this condition was chronotherapy, which involves a daily 3-hour progressive delay in both bedtime and morning rise time for approximately 1 week until the desired sleep/wake times are achieved. […] Another well-described treatment for this disorder is the gradual advancement of sleep/wake times, by increments of 15 minutes per day, with morning bright light therapy (option C), for 1 to 2 hours, typically at 2000 to 10 000 LUX, and melatonin, 1 to 3 mg, prior to bedtime. Treatment is typically administered for a period of weeks or months.
  • #10 Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder (DSPD) • Saugatuck Pediatrics • Dr. Jenn Gruen • Dr. Sarah Siegel • Dr. Robin Abramowicz
    https://saugatuckpeds.com/resource/delayed-sleep-phase-disorder-dspd/
    Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder (DSPD) is commonly found in teenagers and young adults. […] In the treatment of DSPD, melatonin should be given 4 hours before the current sleep onset time and move it back 1 hour every week until you have reached the desired sleep onset time. […] Bright light therapy works well as an adjunct to melatonin for DSPD. […] Patients with significant sleep phase shifts (falling asleep more than 3 hours later than desired bedtime) may need more detailed treatment plans managed by a sleep therapist/physician.
  • #11 Phase-dependent treatment of delayed sleep phase syndrome with melatonin. – Melatonin Facts
    https://melatoninfacts.org/study/phase-dependent-treatment-of-delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome-with-melatonin/
    Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) is a circadian-rhythm sleep disorder characterized by abnormally late sleep and wake times. Melatonin, taken in the evening, advances sleep and circadian phase in patients with DSPS. However, little is known about the most effective dose or time of administration. In the present study, we tested the effectiveness of melatonin to advance the timing of sleep and circadian phase in individuals with DSPS. […] Both doses of melatonin advanced the circadian phase of endogenous melatonin. The magnitude of phase advance in dim-light melatonin onset correlated strongly with the time of melatonin administration, with earlier times being more effective (r2 = 0.94, P .0001). […] These results indicate that melatonin advances the circadian clock and sleep in patients with DSPS in a phase-dependent manner. This is the first study that reports a relationship between timing of melatonin administration and phase changes in patients with DSPS.
  • #12 Treating delayed sleep–wake phase disorder in young adults
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5573579/
    A 27-year-old man reports severe insomnia. […] The diagnosis of delayed sleepwake phase disorder (DSWPD) was confirmed with 4 weeks of sleepwake log and actigraphic recordings. […] The patient was treated with low doses of melatonin (0.5 mg), taken 5 hours before bedtime in order to advance his circadian system and minimize its soporific effects in the evening. […] The 2015 American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) practice guidelines for the treatment of circadian rhythm sleepwake disorders recommend strategically timed melatonin for the treatment of DSWPD in adults, children and adolescents with or without psychiatric comorbidities, although the available evidence is weak (owing to the low number of high-quality studies). […] The patient was also asked to expose himself to bright light for 3060 minutes each morning.
  • #12 Treating delayed sleep–wake phase disorder in young adults
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5573579/
    The 2015 AASM practice guidelines found insufficient evidence to recommend bright light exposure, light avoidance strategies, or chronotherapy for the treatment of DSWPD. […] In an open trial study, combined melatonin and bright light appeared important to maintain therapeutic gains after 3 months and to avoid relapse into the delayed sleep schedule. […] In conclusion, DSWPD is a common circadian rhythm disorder affecting mostly adolescents and young adults.
  • #13 Delayed sleep phase – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/delayed-sleep-phase/symptoms-causes/syc-20353340
    A treatment plan might include making changes to sleep habits, taking melatonin supplements and using light therapy. […] See a health care professional if you have persistent symptoms of delayed sleep-wake phase disorder. Or make an appointment for your child if you think your child has symptoms of delayed sleep-wake phase disorder that don’t go away. […] Also make an appointment if you or your child regularly has trouble waking in the morning or has excessive daytime drowsiness. […] Auger RR, et al. Clinical practice guideline for the treatment of intrinsic circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders: Advanced sleep-wake phase disorder (ASWPD), delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (DSWPD), non-24-hour sleep-wake rhythm disorder (N24SWD), and irregular sleep-wake rhythm disorder (ISWRD). An update for 2015 An American Academy of Sleep Medicine clinical practice guideline. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. 2015; doi:10.5664/jcsm.5100.
  • #14 Circadian Rhythm Disorders: Symptoms, Treatment & Types
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12115-circadian-rhythm-disorders
    The treatments for circadian rhythm disorders vary depending on the specific disorder and your personal circumstances. Treatments may involve one or more of the following: […] Take supplemental melatonin (a sleep-regulating hormone your body produces naturally) or medications that work similarly, after talking with your healthcare provider. […] Your body makes a hormone, melatonin, to regulate your circadian rhythm and make you sleepy. Work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the dose of melatonin that’s right for you. Melatonin supplements are available over the counter, and there are prescription medications that work similarly to melatonin. Examples include tasimelteon or ramelteon. Healthcare providers often prescribe these for circadian rhythm disorders. […] If you suspect you have a circadian rhythm disorder, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider like a sleep medicine specialist or a behavioral sleep medicine psychologist. Doing so sooner rather than later can help you avoid more serious issues, such as daytime sleepiness-related accidents or problems at work or school.
  • #15 Ramelteon for Delayed Sleep-wake Phase Disorder: A Case Report
    https://www.cpn.or.kr/journal/view.html?doi=10.9758/cpn.2020.18.1.167
    Recently developed melatonin receptor agonists are expected to be effective for delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (DSWPD). […] To date, however, no study has described the effect of melatonin receptor agonists on DSWPD. […] Treatment for DSWPD requires a multifactorial approach, including pharmacotherapy, chronotherapy, bright light therapy, and intervention with zeitgeber. […] According to the current literature, melatonin is the preferred drug treatment for DSWPD. […] However, reports on the effectiveness of melatonin for DSWPD have been inconsistent. […] Therefore, ramelteon is expected to be effective for DSWPD. […] Here, we report the effects of a combination of ramelteon and bright light therapy on a patient with DSWPD. […] To our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating that ramelteon is effective for the treatment of DSWPD.
  • #16 Ramelteon for Delayed Sleep-wake Phase Disorder: A Case Report
    https://www.cpn.or.kr/journal/view.html?doi=10.9758/cpn.2020.18.1.167
    Thus, ramelteon 4 mg may be more effective than ramelteon 8 mg for patients with DSWPD, similar to findings observed in healthy adults. […] Further studies are warranted to investigate the appropriate dosage and timing of ramelteon administration for DSWPD. […] Thus, combined use of ramelteon and bright light therapy under hospitalization may enhance the therapeutic effect for DSWPD. […] The phase advance effect of hypnotics, such as zolpidem, on DSWPD has not been well investigated. […] Thus, the clinical practice guideline does not recommend the use of hypnotics for the treatment of DSWPD.
  • #17 Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder Part 2: Treatment | Psychology Today
    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/sleepless-in-america/200909/delayed-sleep-phase-disorder-part-2-treatment
    A specially designed bright light box may be prescribed. […] Evening light avoidance involves greatly reducing room lighting and light exposure in the evening. […] Ingestion of oral melatonin later in the day has the effect of advancing the onset of sleep. […] Chronotherapy can be used if there is a flexible enough daytime schedule. […] Cognitive behavior therapy is useful to help people improve their sleep hygiene such as keeping a better sleep schedule, decreasing excessive caffeine use and adhering to evening light avoidance. […] Maintenance is extremely important. Keeping a regular bedtime and morning rise time as well as continuing to have morning light exposure and avoiding evening light are critical to maintaining the hard won gains of therapy.
  • #17 Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder Part 2: Treatment | Psychology Today
    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/sleepless-in-america/200909/delayed-sleep-phase-disorder-part-2-treatment
    Chronotherapy and phototherapy are used to treat delayed sleep phase. […] The sleep specialist recommended immediately limiting use of the computer and sending text messages to friends to no later than 9 p.m. […] Her parents obtained a recommended bright light box that she would start using every morning upon awakening. […] She started taking an over the counter supplement of melatonin, although the sleep specialist noted that this is not an FDA approved treatment and over the counter supplements are not closely regulated by the government. […] Other techniques such as phototherapy, oral melatonin and chronotherapy should be used under the direction of a sleep specialist or a physician familiar with these techniques. […] Morning Phototherapy involves exposure to bright light upon awakening.
  • #18 Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
    https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-deprivation/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome
    Generally, DSPS treatment involves more than one method. The purpose of treatment is to normalize your sleep schedule by adjusting your body clock. Your doctor will choose the best treatments for your symptoms and lifestyle. This might include: […] Advancing your internal clock. Each night, you’ll go to bed about 15 minutes earlier. You’ll also wake up a bit earlier each day. […] Delaying your internal clock. Also known as chronotherapy, this method involves delaying your bedtime 1 to 2.5 hours every six days. This is repeated until you can follow a normal sleep schedule. […] Bright light therapy. After waking up, you will sit near a light box for 30 minutes. The morning light exposure can help you sleep sooner by advancing your internal clock. […] Melatonin supplements. Your doctor might have you take melatonin, a hormone that controls your sleep-wake cycle. The best amount and timing is different for each person, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s exact instructions.
  • #18 Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
    https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-deprivation/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome
    Improving sleep hygiene. Good sleep habits include following a regular sleep schedule and avoiding electronics before bedtime. You should also avoid these things before going to sleep: caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, vigorous exercise. […] DSPS often continues into adulthood, so it needs to be actively treated. The initial treatment will adjust your body clock. But to maintain that change, you’ll need to continue treatment. Your doctor can explain the best way to keep treating DSPS. […] With your doctor’s help, you can get your sleep back on track. Treatment aims to change your body clock with bright light therapy, melatonin, and good sleep hygiene. It might also involve adjusting your sleep and wake times.
  • #19 How to treat Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome — Sleep Cycle
    https://www.sleepcycle.com/sleep-disorders/identifying-and-treating-delayed-sleep-phase-disorder/
    As the name suggests, chronotherapy is a time-based therapy that involves gradually applying a new sleep schedule. This schedule delays bedtime by between one and two hours every day until the desired effect and bedtime have been achieved. For example, say you are going to bed at 3 am and waking up at 11 am. On the first day of chronotherapy, you might stay up until 6 am, waking up at 2 pm. On the second day, you would stay up until 9 am, waking up at 5 pm. On the third day, you would stay up until 12 pm, waking up at 8 pm, and so on until you achieve the desirable bedtime and wake-up time. This treatment requires a lot of discipline and adherence to a strict schedule, but it can be effective for people with severe DSPS. […] People with DSPS may feel isolated from society as the disorder can significantly impact their lifestyle, leading to anxiety about their late sleep schedule. Fortunately, sleep specialists can provide guidance and recommend therapy treatments to alleviate DSPS symptoms and empower individuals to regain control over their sleep routine. […] While there are various helpful tips for achieving quality sleep, it is essential to take DSPS and any sleep disorder seriously. We advise seeking professional medical assistance if sleep-related problems are causing health issues or significant disruption to your life.
  • #19 How to treat Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome — Sleep Cycle
    https://www.sleepcycle.com/sleep-disorders/identifying-and-treating-delayed-sleep-phase-disorder/
    Research shows theres a one in three chance that you likely suffer from some kind of sleeping disorder that may stop you from getting the right amount of rest you need and has a significant impact on your quality of life. One of the most common of these is Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome, or DSPS. But what is it and why should we address it? And finally how can we treat it? […] When seeking treatment for Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome, its important to rule out other potential causes of the problem. Examples of these can be another sleep disorder, an undiagnosed medical condition, side effects of prescribed medication or substance abuse. Studies indicate that 50% of DSPS sufferers also experience depression, so ensuring the right problem is identified is a vital first step in any treatment. […] If you think you may have DSPS, we recommend contacting a healthcare professional. After an initial examination and confirmed diagnosis, your doctor may recommend a treatment plan. This generally focuses on 3 main areas:
  • #20
    https://www.painscale.com/article/conventional-medical-treatments-for-delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome
    The most common treatment for delayed sleep phase syndrome involves adjusting sleep hygiene habits; however, some conventional medical treatments are available. […] Modafinil, a stimulant medication, can be prescribed if sleep deprivation is a factor. This medication is taken in the morning to help with daytime functioning. […] Chronotherapy involves shifting the sleep cycle to several hours later each night until the desired wake time is achieved. […] This treatment method involves shifting the sleep schedule to an earlier time (typically 15 minutes earlier) each night. […] Exposure to morning light from the sun or a light box (designed for light therapy) can help reset the body’s internal clock. […] Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is an effective treatment for insomnia and circadian rhythm sleep disorders, such as DSPS.
  • #21 Sleeplessness and Circadian Rhythm Disorder Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations, Bright Light Therapy, Behavioral Therapy
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1188944-treatment
    Tasimelteon (Hetlioz) is approved by the FDA for treatment of non24-hour sleep-wake disorder in the totally blind. […] In patients with irregular sleep-wake cycles, behavioral modification has been shown to be helpful. […] Emphasizing a program of regular morning exercise is a component of promoting sleep hygiene. […] Address associated psychological issues. Patients with delayed sleep-phase syndrome (DSPS) who initially respond to chronotherapy may gradually shift back to their old sleep pattern. Often, chronotherapy must be repeated every few months to maintain long-lasting results.
  • #22 Inpatient phase-advance therapy for delayed sleep-wake phase disorder: | NSS
    https://www.dovepress.com/inpatient-phase-advance-therapy-for-delayed-sleep-wake-phase-disorder–peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-NSS
    The efficacy of inpatient phase-advance therapy among patients with delayed sleepwake phase disorder (DSWPD) has not been adequately investigated because response rates are considered low. We aimed to examine the efficacy of such treatment in this patient population. […] The rate of DSWPD remission over the course of inpatient phase-advance therapy was 100% (95% CI: 95.6%100%), with a median duration of 1 day (IQR: 12 days; range: 19 days) until remission. […] The rate of DSWPD remission under inpatient phase-advance therapy was remarkably high (100%), while the rate of relapse after discharge was ~50%. Further studies are required to determine the long-term prognosis of inpatient therapy, risk factors for relapse, and the types of treatment most effective for preventing relapse. […] The present study is the second to examine the therapeutic efficacy of inpatient phase-advance therapy for DSWPD and one of the few studies concentrating on the rates of DSWPD remission and relapse.
  • #23 Inpatient phase-advance therapy for delayed sleep-wake phase disorder: | NSS
    https://www.dovepress.com/inpatient-phase-advance-therapy-for-delayed-sleep-wake-phase-disorder–peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-NSS
    Given the high remission rates observed over a relatively short period of time, our findings suggest that inpatient phase-advance therapy should be utilized during the early stages of treatment when outpatient therapy has provided unsatisfactory results. […] This study identified that age under 18 years, age at onset under 16 years, and lack of motivation for the occupation were predictive factors for relapse. Further studies should evaluate a greater number of cases in order to identify such predictive factors considering intercorrelations and to develop more effective strategies for preventing relapse in patients with DSWPD.
  • #24 Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome: Causes & Treatment | Sleep Reset
    https://www.thesleepreset.com/learn/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome
    Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder is very treatable. […] Often, it can be treated by making lifestyle changes to promote better sleep. […] There are a few different treatments that may be recommended to treat delayed sleep phase syndrome. […] Good sleep hygiene involves creating a comfortable sleep environment and forming healthy sleep habits. […] Good sleep hygiene can help those with delayed sleep-wake phase syndrome maintain a normal sleep schedule and fall asleep at the right time. […] When youre treating delayed sleep-wake phase disorder, youll need to shift your bedtime to get your internal clock on track. […] Light therapy is a method that some people find helpful when dealing with delayed sleep-wake phase disorder. […] As a last resort, some people may try melatonin or other sleep supplements. […] Getting your sleep back on track can be difficult to do on your own. […] With Sleep Reset, youll get a personalized sleep program that is backed by science and proven sleep methods to help you fall asleep faster and wake up feeling rested.
  • #25 Delayed Sleep Phase – The Sleep Charity
    https://thesleepcharity.org.uk/information-support/adults/sleep-disorders/delayed-sleep-phase/
    Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS) is a misalignment in the circadian rhythm to the social and physical environment. […] The main issue is trying to fall asleep before the body clock is ready to and/or attempting to wake up in the morning before the body clock is ready to. […] How to treat Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome: Bright light therapy, shortly after awakening, may help to reset the body clock. […] Reduce exposure to light in the evening and in particular avoid screen time an hour or longer before bed. […] Shifting the bedtime schedule there are two ways to do it 1) move bedtime forward gradually or 2) move bedtime later, usually by about three hours (this only works if you have a period time where you can implement this as it involves going to bed and waking up at inappropriate times). […] Improving sleep hygiene, keeping regular hours and only using the bedroom for sleeping can help to strengthen the body clock. […] Melatonin or other natural sleep-inducing drugs are an option but should be used under guidance of a sleep specialist.
  • #26 Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase – Sleep Education by the AASM
    https://sleepeducation.org/sleep-disorders/delayed-sleep-wake-phase/
    Strategically timed low dose melatonin use has been shown to be an effective treatment option in teens, and it may be somewhat effective in adults. Melatonin dosage and timing should be discussed with a sleep doctor to ensure the most effective treatment strategy. […] Bright light therapy is another proven technique for changing your internal circadian rhythms, but its specific use for DSP has not been well validated. In theory, exposure to bright light should occur shortly after waking up at the desired time in the morning. Then bright light in the evening hours should be avoided. Light therapy combined with behavioral therapy for children and adolescents may be a treatment option. […] Cognitive behavioral therapy helps you change actions or thoughts that keep you awake. It helps you develop habits that promote a healthy pattern of sleep.
  • #27
    https://www.advocatehealth.com/health-services/sleep-medicine/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome
    Advocate Health Cares Sleep Centers in Chicago are here to help you overcome delayed sleep phase syndrome and help you get. Our sleep specialists have access to the latest technology and sleep studies to help you end your sleepless nights and turn them into restful ones. […] Treatment for delayed sleep phase syndrome aims to shift your sleep-wake cycle to more conventional times. A sleep specialist will help you come up with effective strategies to improve your sleep pattern. Some strategies may include: […] Light therapy involves using a lightbox that emits intense light like natural sunlight, helping advance your sleep phase and improve sleep onset and wake times. […] Taking melatonin supplements in the evening can help you fall asleep and regulate your sleep-wake phase disorder. […] Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) can help you develop healthier sleep habits by managing any anxiety or negative thoughts associated with delayed sleep phase disorder.
  • #28 Delayed sleep phase disorder – Knowledge and References – Taylor & Francis
    https://taylorandfrancis.com/knowledge/Medicine_and_healthcare/Sleep_medicine/Delayed_sleep_phase_disorder/
    Delayed sleep phase disorder (DSPD) is a disorder of the timing of sleep; people suffering from DSPD typically go to bed late and wake up late (3–6 hours later than normal sleeping hours). […] DSPD is most common among adolescents and young adults, and the prevalence is about 1–10% in this group. […] This disorder often includes difficulties initiating sleep, fatigue, daytime sleepiness, concentration difficulties, irritability, depressive symptoms, and anxiety. […] Gradisar et al. (2011a) found that a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and bright light treatment was effective in improving sleep in adolescents with delayed sleep phase disorder. […] Harvey et al. (2018) also targeted adolescents with an evening chronotype and found that a multicomponent sleep intervention, including cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, was more effective than psychoeducation in improving sleep. […] A study of 9 patients with delayed sleep-phase disorder found a statistically significant advance in sleep onset time of 132 minutes after treatment and a non-statistically significant advance in dim-light melatonin onset of 78 minutes.
  • #29 Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS) Specialist in Houston
    https://breathefreely.com/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome/
    Chronotherapy: This behavioral technique involves gradually shifting the sleep schedule earlier by adjusting sleep and wake times in small increments over several days or weeks. […] Improving Sleep Hygiene: Establishing consistent sleep routines and creating a sleep-friendly environment can help reinforce healthier sleep patterns. This includes reducing exposure to bright lights and electronic devices before bedtime, maintaining a quiet and comfortable sleep setting, and avoiding caffeine or stimulants in the evening. […] Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): In some cases, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) may be helpful, particularly if anxiety or poor sleep habits are contributing to the disorder. […] Managing DSPS can be challenging, but with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, many individuals can find relief from their symptoms. It’s important to work closely with a sleep specialist to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the unique needs of the individual. […] If you’re experiencing the symptoms of delayed sleep phase syndrome, seeking professional help from a sleep specialist is crucial.
  • #30 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/health/Delayed-Sleep-Phase-Disorder-(DSPD)-Management.aspx
    Advancing the sleep-wake cycle can be assisted by light or dark therapy. This works on the principle that the circadian rhythm relies on light cues to determine the appropriate time to sleep and adjusts accordingly. […] Chronotherapy is a technique used to reset the clock by delaying the sleep-wake cycle significantly, such that becomes aligned with the normal sleep time. […] Finally, there are some pharmacological options that may help to aid sleep in patients with severe symptoms. […] Melatonin is naturally present in higher concentrations in the body at approximate bedtime when feelings of tiredness peak. For this reason, it can be used to aid sleep when taken shortly before bedtime. […] Modafinil is a stimulant that can be used to improve performance during the day for individuals affected by DSPD-related sleep deprivation.
  • #31 Treatments – Circadian Sleep Disorders Network
    https://www.circadiansleepdisorders.org/treatments.php
    Current research strongly suggests that light therapy should be combined with dark therapy for it to be effective. […] Experience has shown that it is often not possible for a person with DSPS to shift his sleep time earlier, at least not as much earlier as desired, even with bright light and melatonin. […] Some doctors prescribe hypnotics („sleeping pills”) to help patients fall asleep at their desired time. […] Some have suggested large doses of vitamin B12. […] A lot of people are helped by the treatments above. But treatment does not work for everyone.
  • #32 Understanding Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome | Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
    https://www.afdpharma.com/health-conditions/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome-dsps/
    Chronotherapy: Chronotherapy involves gradually adjusting sleep schedules over time to gradually shift the timing of sleep. This approach may be effective for some individuals with DSPS, but it requires dedication and consistency. […] Medications: In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to help regulate sleep patterns. These may include melatonin supplements, which can help signal to the body that it is time to sleep, or sedatives to promote relaxation and sleep initiation. However, medication should be used cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they may have side effects and can be habit-forming.
  • #33 Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder Treatment | The Better Sleep Clinic
    https://thebettersleepclinic.com/services/delayed-sleep-phase-disorder-treatment
    Up to 10% of adolescents and adults will suffer from DSPD. We provide a multi-faceted treatment approach, based on current guidelines and our experience working with others with this delayed sleep phase disorder, to give you the skills to understand and manage your body clock. […] Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder is a circadian rhythm disorder and a real condition that can require lifelong management. It can also significantly affect mental health. […] At The Better Sleep Clinic we offer specialized DSPD treatment to help you realign your sleep schedule and improve your overall quality of life. […] At The Better Sleep Clinic we take a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to DSPD treatment that follows international guidelines on effective, evidence-based treatment. Our sleep specialists work closely with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses your unique circadian rhythm challenges, co-occurring mental health or physical health conditions, and lifestyle needs.
  • #34 Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder Treatment | The Better Sleep Clinic
    https://thebettersleepclinic.com/services/delayed-sleep-phase-disorder-treatment
    Delayed sleep phase treatment has some common components that we will typically tailor to the individual and their situation. […] We use strategically timed light exposure to help reset your circadian rhythm and advance your sleep phase. […] Precisely timed melatonin administration, of the right type and at the right dosage, can help to regulate the body clock and influence sleep-wake cycle. […] Specialized therapy to address sleep-related behaviours that interfere with sleep and thought patterns that promote sleep anxiety and may worsen your DSPD. […] Not a commonly used approach, but for some individuals this can be a preferred approach to carefully structure sleep schedule adjustment and gradually shift sleep timing to a more conventional pattern. […] Treatment is delivered one-to-one by an experienced and qualified mental health practitioner and sleep specialist.
  • #35 Everything You Should Know About Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome – CNET
    https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome/
    For people with delayed sleep, the main types of treatment that work best are cognitive behavior therapy, light therapy and melatonin. […] Currently, there isn’t one treatment solely for delayed sleepers, but there is hope that technology is one step closer to finding a solution, and that is what Figueiro and her team are working on. […] Shift work is a possible solution for adults with delayed sleep, Figueiro said. Those who can find work and activities that start later in the day aren’t as heavily affected by society’s typical schedule. […] Ultimately, she and her team are on the hunt to understand and answer one question: Can you change your clock, with light therapy so that you can move to an earlier time? […] When you seek professional help, specialists will ask about your sleeping routine and habits. A sleep log or fitness tracker may be useful to help doctors properly diagnose you.
  • #36 Everything You Should Know About Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome – CNET
    https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome/
    The hope is that eventually, wearable technology will be as informative and useful for one’s sleep as it is for one’s physical fitness. […] Figueiro says a light coach app can help a person understand when they need to get light. […] Mansbach and Wharton’s hope is that others become more empathetic about the DSPS experience in the future because more and more people experience delayed sleep.
  • #37 Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome | Stanford Health Care
    https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/sleep/delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome.html
    If you have been unsuccessful in changing your sleeping pattern on your own, it may be time to seek the help of sleep disorder specialists. Our sleep specialists use two treatment methods to treat DSPS: […] Bright light therapy: We use light to gradually shift your sleeping pattern to a more conventional schedule. […] Chronotherapy: This technique aims to reset your circadian clock by slowly delaying your bedtime (and your sleep period) by about two hours every few days.
  • #38 What Is Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome? – Sleep Care Online
    https://www.sleepcareonline.com/articles/what-is-delayed-sleep-phase-syndrome/?srsltid=AfmBOoqyFt8qqxWdEBkm4Yv2TK3DfrSEtMCC8boJQysEC6f4O9g8t-TR
    One common sleep disorder is delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS). […] While there may not be a cure for delayed sleep phase syndrome, the condition can be managed to achieve healthier sleep. Treatments include some non-invasive therapies, lifestyle changes, supplements, and medications prescribed by your doctor. […] Treatments for DSPS include: Light therapy which can help a patient adjust their circadian rhythm. Maintaining consistent sleep schedules and following healthier sleep hygiene. Use of melatonin to help induce sleep earlier. Some prescribed medications which can help align a patients circadian rhythm. […] Diagnosis through at-home sleep testing helps rule out sleep apnea so you can pursue proper treatment. […] Sleep disorders should be taken seriously. Speak to your doctor about any sleep problems and about getting a diagnosis and treatment. Sleep specialists can help designate the type of sleep disorder you have and possible connections with other types of sleep disorders. They may also determine if sleep apnea is playing a role in your DSPS.
  • #39 Bright Light Therapy | UT Medical Center
    https://www.utmedicalcenter.org/treatments/bright-light-therapy
    Bright Light Therapy is used to manage circadian rhythm disorders such as Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS), a condition which shifts the normal sleeping pattern outside what is considered the social norm. […] Bright Light Therapy is used to gradually shift sleeping patterns to what we consider normal. For treatment, the timing of light exposure is critical. For DSPS, the light must be delivered to the retina as soon after spontaneous awakening as possible to achieve the desired effect. […] Light therapy also called phototherapy uses a full-spectrum lamp or portable visor, usually 10,000 lux in intensity, for 30-90 minutes at the patients usual time of spontaneous awakening, or shortly before. […] For maintenance, some patients continue the treatment indefinitely, while some reduce their daily treatment to 15 minutes.
  • #40 Advanced Sleep Phase Disorder (ASPD) | Sleep Health Foundation
    https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/advanced-sleep-phase-disorder-aspd
    As you can see, this treatment is quite complex. You may want to consult a sleep specialist, especially if you dont have success treating ASPD by yourself. […] When you stop treatment, your sleep period may then slowly creep to be earlier again. So, you may need to use the bright light and /or melatonin every now and then. […] Your doctor would be able to prescribe melatonin and, if felt necessary, refer you to a sleep specialist.
  • #41 Why Treatment May Not Work For You – Circadian Sleep Disorders Network
    https://www.circadiansleepdisorders.org/info/treatment_issues.php
    Many people respond to treatment. Nevertheless, I have read the personal stories of many people with DSPS or Non-24 who have tried, for long periods of time and at great personal distress, to follow their doctor’s treatment prescriptions, but the treatment failed. It failed in that the patients complained of increasing tiredness, decreasing ability to function normally in their lives, even illness. […] The studies of treatments done to date do not distinguish between the various causes. So the conclusions may or may not apply to you, depending on your specific cause of CRSD. […] Most studies of interventions for CRSDs are completed in a matter of weeks, and report on success or failure in shifting the subjects’ schedules. But in practical terms, a treatment is successful only if the patient continues to be able to follow the prescribed schedule. This is not always the case.
  • #41 Why Treatment May Not Work For You – Circadian Sleep Disorders Network
    https://www.circadiansleepdisorders.org/info/treatment_issues.php
    Many research studies which conclude that the patients have reset their clocks measure DLMO and/or CBT, but don’t measure sleep quality, daytime performance, or subjective well-being. Some patients complain that they still don’t feel rested after sleeping on the new schedule after treatment. For this reason they may choose not to continue treatment, so the „low compliance” often cited in the literature may be due to this lack of subjective improvement.
  • #42 Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder
    https://researchfeatures.com/delayed-sleep-wake-phase-disorder/
    Dr Gregory Carter from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas has studied delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (DSWPD) for decades. […] Possible treatment options include melatonin and a combination of bright light therapy and cognitive behaviour therapy. Successful treatment requires personal motivation and discipline to adhere to strict schedules. […] A 2015 paper published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine outlines the treatment recommendations from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) for DSWPD according to an extensive systematic literature review and meta-analyses. […] Firstly, melatonin represents a potential therapy avenue, as it is a hormone associated with the internal circadian clock. […] Successful treatment depends on personal motivation to endure sleep deprivation initially and maintain a rigid schedule continuously.
  • #43 Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder
    https://researchfeatures.com/delayed-sleep-wake-phase-disorder/
    A combination light therapy has also been suggested as a potential treatment option for DSWPD patients. […] Therefore, the success of therapy requires personal motivation to maintain a rigid schedule. […] Both therapies require patients to fix their daily schedule, which would cause initial anxiety. Thus, successful treatment depends on personal motivation to endure sleep deprivation initially and maintain a rigid schedule continuously.
  • #44
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40675-016-0052-1
    Therefore, none of the interventions either alone or in combination were any more effective than the advancement of wake times alone. […] The study also included a subsequent 3-month open label trial of melatonin and bright light versus no intervention and found that only the former maintained the shift in sleep to an earlier time. […] The AASM practice parameters included a weak recommendation for light therapy in this particular patient population with ISWRD, and the results of this study are consistent with this recommendation. […] Melatonin was given a weak recommendation for the treatment of DSWPD, N24SWD, and children and adolescents with neurological disorders and ISWRD in the AASM practice parameters. […] The potential contraindications to melatonin use have included excessive sedation with ingestion, pregnancy or nursing, seizure disorders, and warfarin therapy. […] It is clear that large randomized clinical trials testing combination treatments in patients with carefully defined CRSWD are sorely needed.
  • #44
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40675-016-0052-1
    This review summarizes recent developments relevant to the treatment of circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders. […] These include studies assessing treatments for delayed sleep-wake phase disorder, non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder, irregular sleep-wake disorder, and shift work. […] The recommendations that were made were further notable for the general weakness of recommendation. […] There was also a weak recommendation for timed melatonin or melatonin agonists in delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (DSWPD), non-24-hour sleep-wake rhythm disorder (N24SWD), and ISWRD in children/adolescents with neurological disorders. […] In this study, Saxvig et al. randomized 40 adolescents diagnosed with DSWPD to one of four 2-week treatments: dim morning light plus placebo capsules, bright morning light plus placebo capsules, dim morning light plus melatonin capsules, and bright morning light plus melatonin capsules.
  • #45 Treatment of delayed sleep phase syndrome – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8522148/
    Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) is a common but little reported cause of severe insomnia. […] Bright light treatment potentially corrects the circadian abnormality of DSPS. Other treatments reported to relieve some DSPS patients include schedule shifts, drugs, and vitamin and hormone treatments. […] At present, DSPS must be managed empirically by various methods.
  • #46 Light Therapy for Sleep Disorders: Insomnia, DSPS and ASPS – Amerisleep
    https://amerisleep.com/blog/light-therapy-for-sleep/
    Regularly engaging with this type and intensity of light, at the appropriate time of day helps reset the circadian rhythm, restoring the body’s natural schedule. […] Light therapy is best early in the morning, less than an hour after waking up, and should be completed at the same time every day. This routine is critical to restoring the circadian rhythm. […] Some patients see improvement within days of starting light therapy. Others need a few weeks for the effects to take hold. Keeping a consistent rhythm is key. […] Light therapy is considered safe when used appropriately. However, as with any treatment, there are some potential side effects. […] While light therapy is a great tool to manage insomnia and circadian rhythm disorders, it may not be right for everyone. It may also only be a part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
  • #47 Melatonin as a treatment for Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder
    https://www.sydney.edu.au/research/opportunities/690
    The project will characterise the behavioural and physiological phenotype of DSPD and examine the efficacy of melatonin as a treatment for DSPD. […] This study hopes to conduct a definitive study of melatonin for DSPD, with accurate diagnosis methods, optimal treatment timing and a pragmatic treatment approach. […] Through physiological phenotyping of DSPD we hope to provide an evidence-base to inform pharmacogenetic approaches to treating DSPD.