Using hypnosis to improve CPAP adherence in sleep apnea patients

Effect of Hypnosis on Adherence to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy in Sleep-disordered Breathing: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois · NCT06397365

This study is testing whether hypnosis can help adults with sleep apnea use their CPAP machines more regularly and for longer periods.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorCentre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lausanne, Canton of Vaud)
Trial IDNCT06397365 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effect of medical hypnosis on improving adherence to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy among patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Given that a significant percentage of patients struggle with CPAP adherence, the study aims to explore whether hypnosis can enhance the duration and consistency of CPAP usage. Participants will be adults who have been prescribed CPAP but have shown intolerance, using it for less than 3 hours per night on average. The study will assess the impact of hypnosis on their adherence to treatment over time.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who have been prescribed CPAP therapy but are currently non-adherent due to intolerance.

Not a fit: Patients who refuse to experience hypnosis will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve CPAP adherence, leading to better health outcomes for patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of hypnosis in medical settings is not widely tested specifically for CPAP adherence, there is emerging interest in its potential benefits, suggesting this approach may be novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ≥ 18 years of age
* Indication for long-term CPAP treatment for sleep-disordered breathing.
* Intolerance of CPAP with use of less than 3h/night on average (assessed at the second CPAP check-up by the home care provider 1 to 3 months CPAP introduction).
* Ability to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient's refusal to experience hypnosis.

Where this trial is running

Lausanne, Canton of Vaud

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.
Conditions Apnea SyndromeApnea, ObstructiveCPAP adherencemedical hypnosisobstructive sleep apnea
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.