No magic pill sounds about right to me too.
How does a pill affect only the muscle tone of the ‘upper airways’?
I’m guessing there would be a LOT of side effects.
Also, why does it take a full 26 weeks (half of a year) to get 50% efficacy? Why so slow acting at such a low rate?
“How does a pill affect only the muscle tone of the ‘upper airways’?”
From the underlying study:
AD109 increases upper airway muscular tone primarily through the action of atomoxetine.
Atomoxetine increases norepinephrine levels in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake.
Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that enhances the activity of motor neurons controlling upper airway muscles, particularly the genioglossus muscle in the tongue. This muscle is critical for maintaining airway patency during sleep. By boosting norepinephrine, atomoxetine stimulates these motor neurons, leading to increased muscle tone and reduced airway collapsibility, which is beneficial for conditions like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).