Dawn-Simulator - Chris Aiken, MD

Dawn Simulator

Modulates serotonin, circadian rhythms.

Seasonal winter depression²
Improves energy and wakefulness
Insomnia³

Shift-work syndrome¹
May help sustain sobriety in substance use disorders

Features

Non-sedating, Generic, Elderly-Safe, Tolerable, Natural, Weight-Free, Bipolar-Safe, Sexual-free, Elderly-Preferred, Child-Studied, Activating

Online Handout

Dosing

Device should turn on gradually (over 30-60 minutes) and wake patient up gradually. If they wake up too soon, move light away from bed. If they don’t wake up, move it closer.

One time cost ($30-200).

Management

Improves energy (sleep inertia) and winter depression. Improves sleep by setting circadian rhythm, particularly in night owls and shift workers.

Can be paired with a lightbox in winter depression.

TOLERABILITY: No problems.

RISKS: None.

EMR Text

Depression

Patient was instructed on circadian psychotherapy with dawn simulator, use based on randomized controlled trials in seasonal depression and sleep inertia during depression.

Insomnia

Patient was instructed on circadian psychotherapy with dawn simulator, use based on ability to correct circadian rhythm and sleep cycle.

Search Treatments