Using acetazolamide to help patients with obstructive sleep apnea

Acetazolamide to Improve Clinically Important Outcomes in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients with a High Loop Gain Endotype

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10910059

This study is looking at whether a low-cost medication called acetazolamide can help people with obstructive sleep apnea, especially those who have a tougher form of the condition, by improving their sleep and health when traditional treatments aren't working well for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10910059 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of acetazolamide, a low-cost medication, on patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who have a specific type of the condition known as high loop gain. Many patients struggle with traditional treatments like CPAP, and this study aims to provide an alternative by assessing whether acetazolamide can improve sleep quality and reduce health risks associated with OSA. Participants will be involved in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial where they will receive either the medication or a placebo for four weeks, followed by assessments of their OSA severity and overall health outcomes. The study will also explore the mechanisms behind any observed improvements.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, particularly those with a high loop gain endotype.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have obstructive sleep apnea or those who can effectively use CPAP therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could offer a new treatment option for patients with obstructive sleep apnea who cannot tolerate existing therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results for using acetazolamide in similar contexts, but this specific approach targeting high loop gain endotype is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.