Assessment and modification of a human subject's circadian cycle

摘要

A method for modifying the human endogenous circadian pacemaker is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of determining the characteristics of a desired endogenous circadian cycle for a subject; selecting an appropriate time with respect to the presumed phase of physiological markers of the present endogenous circadian cycle for the subject during which to apply a light stimulus to effect a desired modification of the present endogenous circadian cycle of the subject; and applying said light stimulus at said selected appropriate time to achieve the desired endogenous circadian cycle for the subject. The method finds special utility in treating "jet lag" sufferers, shift workers, advanced circadian phase experienced by many elderly subjects, and those afflicted with delayed sleep phase insomnia.