Exploring the effects of stopping CPAP on sleep apnea patients

Noctural Pulse Waves Variations in OSA as a Predictor of Autonomic and Vascular Response to CPAP Therapy

NA · University of Lausanne Hospitals · NCT05920083

This study is testing what happens to people with sleep apnea when they stop using their CPAP machine for two weeks to see how it affects their heart and blood vessel health.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment65 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Lausanne Hospitals (other)
Locations1 site (Lausanne, Vaud)
Trial IDNCT05920083 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the impact of withdrawing continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment on vascular and autonomic functions in patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Participants will cease CPAP use for two weeks, during which researchers will evaluate changes in endothelial function and baroreflex sensitivity. The study aims to determine if the pulse wave amplitude index can predict the effects of this treatment withdrawal. By comparing baseline measurements to those taken after the withdrawal period, the trial seeks to uncover significant differences in vascular health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and have been using CPAP therapy for at least six months.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions affecting endothelial and autonomic function, such as diabetes, heart failure, or chronic kidney disease, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the cardiovascular risks associated with CPAP withdrawal in OSA patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study may be novel, previous research has explored the effects of CPAP on cardiovascular health, indicating potential relevance.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥18 years old
* Diagnosed with OSA (AHI ≥15 events/h), confirmed during screening period
* Adequately treated with CPAP therapy for ≥6 months
* Able to give informed consent as documented by signature

Exclusion Criteria:

* Professional drivers will be excluded from the study because temporary withdrawal of CPAP may induce drowsiness.
* We will also exclude patients with conditions that may affect endothelial and autonomic function:

  * Known Diabetes
  * Known heart failure
  * Known chronic kidney disease
  * Pregnant or lactating women
  * Morbid obesity (≥40 kg/m2)
  * Known Excessive alcohol consumption
  * Known Dementia (especially dementia with Lewy bodies). (61)
  * Patients using alpha and beta blockers
  * Known atrial fibrillation
  * Inability to follow the procedures of the study due to language problems or psychological disorders.

Where this trial is running

Lausanne, Vaud

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Obstructive Sleep Apnea, OSA, CPAP

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.