The Rebound Effect on Repeated Low-Level Red Light Therapy for Myopia

Myopia is a global public health issue, projected to affect 49.8% of the world population by 2050, increasing risks of cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment. Repeated low-level red light (RLRL) therapy has shown promising myopia control in 12-month trials, reducing axial elongation by 69.4% and refractive progression by 76.6% versus spectacles, outperforming 0.01% atropine and benefiting orthokeratology poor responders. However, two-year data indicate declining efficacy in the second year and a rebound effect upon discontinuation, with progression rates matching untreated controls. This study enrolls participants who completed one year of continuous RLRL therapy to evaluate rebound effects on axial length and spherical equivalent refractive power among those who discontinue, gradually reduce, or continue treatment. Findings will inform strategies to optimize long-term RLRL protocols and mitigate post-treatment rebound.