Sleep Apnoea Clinical Trials in the UK (2026)

Sleep Apnoea: The Under-Treated Epidemic

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) affects an estimated 1.5 million UK adults, yet only a fraction are diagnosed. CPAP remains the gold standard treatment, but up to 50% of patients struggle with adherence. Clinical trials are now addressing this gap with CPAP alternatives, novel devices, and the first drug treatments for OSA.

CPAP Alternative Trials

For patients who cannot tolerate CPAP, several alternatives are in UK trials: hypoglossal nerve stimulation (an implantable device that keeps the airway open during sleep), expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP) valves, custom oral appliances with advanced design, and novel positional therapy devices.

Drug Treatments for OSA

Pharmacological treatments for OSA are a new and exciting area. Trials are testing combinations of existing medications that target the neurological and muscular components of airway collapse. These include serotonin modulators, anti-muscarinic agents, and oxygen-sensing pathway modifiers. If successful, these would be the first FDA/MHRA-approved drugs specifically for OSA.

Sleep Apnoea and Cardiovascular Risk

OSA is a major independent cardiovascular risk factor, and many UK trials study whether treating OSA reduces heart attack, stroke, and heart failure risk. These trials often combine OSA treatment with cardiovascular monitoring and may be suitable for patients with both conditions.

Weight Management and OSA

Since obesity is the strongest modifiable risk factor for OSA, several UK trials combine weight management interventions with OSA treatment. These include GLP-1 agonist trials specifically for OSA patients, bariatric surgery outcome studies, and combined diet-exercise-CPAP protocols.

Finding Your Sleep Apnoea Trial

Key considerations: your OSA severity (mild, moderate, severe), CPAP tolerance, BMI, and any cardiovascular conditions. Browse our sleep apnoea condition page for all available UK trials, or use Smart Matcher for personalised recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions