New Pill Being Developed By US Scientists Could Help Stop Snoring

A new pill may be the saviour for snorers, with claims that it could help ease symptoms of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).

The once-a-day pill, which has been code-named AD109, is being trialled by a US firm called Apnimed - with initial results suggesting it may ease snoring problems by up to 74 percent.

The Daily Mail reports that the tablet contains two drugs that are already in common use, but now could be repurposed to help those with sleep apnoea - the name given to what happens when your breathing stops and starts while you sleep.

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The first is atomoxetine, which is widely used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, by increasing levels of a brain chemical known as noradrenaline to helping improve concentration.

The US scientists working on the new pill believe the noradrenaline could help keep airway muscles in good condition, in turn reducing the possibility of them collapsing while someone is sleeping.

The second drug is oxybutynin, which is often prescribed to people with urinary incontinence, reducing spasms in muscles that control the bladder.

In this new context, it's believed that oxybutynin could help hold the tongue in place, rather than letting it flop over and block the throat - which can cause snoring.

While the new tablet sounds promising, it's worth remembering that it's early days yet, with experts saying further testing is needed.

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Dr Neil Stanley, an independent sleep expert and a member of the British Sleep Society, told the Daily Mail: "These are interesting preliminary findings and the reduction in symptoms is very promising.

"But more research is needed to see if the effect is sustained."

Phase 2 clinical trials are set to begin next month.

According to the NHS, obstructive sleep apnoea is the most common type of sleep apnoea.

While sleep apnoea does not always need to be treated if it's mild, some people need treatment or a means of managing it.

Many used a device known as a CPAP machine, which gently pumps air into a mask worn over your mouth of nose while you sleep.

Other treatments include a gum shield-like device that holds your airways open while you sleep, while some sufferers may undergo surgery - such as to remove large tonsils.

Topics: World News, News, Health

Jess Hardiman

Jess is a journalist at LADbible who graduated from Manchester University with a degree in Film Studies, English Language and Linguistics - indecisiveness at its finest, right there. She also works for FOODbible and its sister page Seitanists, which are both a safe haven for her to channel a love for homemade pasta, fennel and everything else in between. You can contact Jess at [email protected].

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