The subject matter herein is directed to carbazole-containing amide, carbamate, and urea derivatives and pharmaceutically acceptable salts or hydrates thereof of structural formula I wherein the variable R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, A, D, E, G, J, L, M, Q, a, and b are accordingly described. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds of formula I to treat a Cry-mediated disease or disorder, such as diabetes, complications associated with diabetes, Cushing's syndrome, NASH, NAFLD, asthma, and COPD.