Inspire therapy: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When you think of sleep apnea treatment, you probably picture a mask and a machine. But there’s another option that doesn’t require wearing anything at night: Inspire therapy, a surgically implanted device that stimulates the hypoglossal nerve to keep your airway open while you sleep. Also known as upper airway stimulation, it’s not a cure, but for people who can’t tolerate CPAP, it’s a game-changer. Unlike machines that push air into your throat, Inspire therapy works from inside—activating muscles that pull your tongue forward so it doesn’t block your breathing.

This treatment is meant for adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who’ve tried CPAP and couldn’t stick with it. It’s not for everyone. You need to pass a sleep study, have a specific body type, and not have complete airway collapse. The device is implanted during a same-day surgery, and you turn it on with a remote before bed. It doesn’t move your tongue constantly—it only fires when you’re asleep and your breathing starts to pause. That’s why users report feeling more natural than with a mask. It’s also the only FDA-approved implant for sleep apnea that doesn’t rely on external airflow.

People often mix up Inspire therapy with other nerve stimulators or oral appliances. But this isn’t a mouthpiece you wear like a retainer. It’s not a pill or a supplement. It’s a medical device, implanted under the skin, with wires connected to the hypoglossal nerve and the chest. The system includes a sensor that detects breathing patterns and a pulse generator that delivers mild stimulation. Think of it like a pacemaker for your airway. It’s not cheap, and insurance doesn’t always cover it—but for those who’ve struggled for years, it’s often life-changing. You’ll still need follow-up visits to adjust settings, but no more nightly mask struggles, dry mouth, or claustrophobia.

If you’re tired of CPAP, or if you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for surgery, Inspire therapy might be worth asking about. It’s not the first step, but it’s the most advanced option for people who’ve run out of easy choices. Below, you’ll find real-world guides on related treatments, drug interactions that affect sleep apnea, how to track your progress, and what to expect when switching from one therapy to another. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or helping someone else, these posts give you the straight facts—not marketing.