NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving sleep and cognition in children with Down syndrome using medications.

Official title: Medications for Obstructive Sleep Apnea to Improve Cognition in Children with Down Syndrome (MOSAIC DS)

Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-10909897 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at whether a mix of two medications, atomoxetine and oxybutynin, can help kids with Down syndrome who have obstructive sleep apnea sleep better and think more clearly.

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Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Arizona
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tucson, United States)
Project startSeptember 15, 2019
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$323,269
NIH project number5R33HL151254-05
Project IDNIH-10909897 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are children with Down syndrome who are diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea.

Less likely to help

Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not have obstructive sleep apnea may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of a combination of medications, atomoxetine and oxybutynin, to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in children with Down syndrome. OSA is common in these children and can lead to cognitive impairments and reduced quality of life. The study aims to determine if this medication combination can improve airway tone during sleep, thereby alleviating OSA symptoms and enhancing cognitive function. By focusing on a well-tolerated treatment option, the research seeks to provide a viable alternative to current therapies that may not be effective for all patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve cognitive function and quality of life for children with Down syndrome suffering from obstructive sleep apnea.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that similar approaches using hypoglossal nerve stimulation have been effective in adolescents with Down syndrome, indicating potential for success with this medication-based approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Arizona
    Tucson, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Combs, Daniel — University of Arizona
  • Study coordinator: Combs, Daniel

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.