09/02/2026
It is coming.....a pill to treat sleep apnea. It will work best for patients with severe sleep apnea but it will come with some side effects not everyone can tolerate. One of the main side effects; dry mouth- which will make patients more susceptible to dental cavities and gum issues. The other important thing this pill will do is create awareness. Awareness of sleep apnea in general and the importance of treating your sleep apnea.
Many with severe sleep apnea will find benefit with the pill but will it totally do away with their issue? Probably not and that is why what we as dentists do will be more popular. It will help manage and lessen their disorder but they will most likely be left with mild sleep apnea which is where oral appliances tend to shine! Read the article to learn more.
A once-nightly pill cut breathing interruptions by about 44% in a major phase 3 sleep apnea trial, while improving oxygen levels and disease severity. By strengthening the muscles that keep the airway open during sleep, AD109 could offer a new option for people unable to tolerate CPAP.