Intermittent Hypoxia in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis

Launched by SHIRLEY RYAN ABILITYLAB · Feb 22, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new way to help people with multiple sclerosis (MS) become stronger by using a technique called Acute Intermittent Hypoxia (AIH). This involves briefly breathing in low levels of oxygen, similar to what you might experience at a high altitude, for less than a minute at a time. Researchers want to see how this method affects brain activity and ankle strength in people with MS. Previous studies suggest that AIH can safely help improve strength in those living with this condition.

To participate, individuals must be between 18 and 75 years old and have a specific type of MS known as relapsing-remitting or secondary-progressive MS. They should have a certain level of disability that allows them to engage in the study and must have been relapse-free for at least a year. Participants will undergo assessments of their strength and brain function before and after the AIH intervention. It’s important to note that certain health conditions, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure or pregnancy, may prevent someone from joining the trial. This study aims to provide valuable insights into how AIH could be a helpful treatment for people with MS.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnoses of relapsing form of MS (including relapsing-remitting MS and secondary-progressive MS)
• • Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of at least 3 and no more than 6.5
• • Motor Functional System Scale (FSS) between 2-4
• • Relapse free for at least 1 year
• • Age ≥ 18 years and ≤ 75 years
• • Safe to be scanned based on MRI questionnaire
• • Participants using dalfampridine will be eligible if taking the same daily dose for at least 2 months prior to screening
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Active contrast-enhancing MS lesions, or diffusion positive lesions suggestive of acute cerebrovascular disease on baseline MRI scan
• • Uncontrolled hypertension (Systolic between 85 and 140, diastolic between 90 and 55)
• • History of epilepsy
• • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• • Uncontrolled Sleep apnea
• • Pregnancy