Drs. Shalini Paruthi and Sachin Shah discuss the latest sleep technology for insomnia, focusing on digital cognitive behavioral therapy apps, NIRRibles for sleep tracking, non-contact monitoring devices, vibrational sound pillows, and transcranial electrical stimulation. They highlight personalized treatment options, patient-driven discussions, and the importance of informed decision-making in utilizing sleep technology for insomnia treatment.
Digital CBT-I apps offer accessible therapy for insomnia, FDA clearance limited but evolving.
Variety of sleep technologies available, from nearables to transcranial electrical stimulation devices, research needed for efficacy evaluation.
Deep dives
Emerging Sleep Technology for Insomnia
Digital cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia has gained popularity, offering patients access to therapy without requiring a psychologist. Various apps provide components of cognitive therapy over digital platforms, including sleep hygiene, stimulus control, and relaxation techniques. Patients can choose from automated, self-guided, or auxiliary approaches, depending on their preferences and needs.
Regulatory Aspects of Digital CBT-I Apps
FDA clearance for digital CBT-I apps remains limited, with only one app having been approved and subsequently acquired. While FDA regulations are evolving for digital health technologies, most digital CBT-I apps are currently not under FDA regulation. The rise of prescription digital therapeutics could impact the regulatory landscape in the future.
Diverse Approaches in Sleep Technology
An array of sleep technology options exists, from nearables that employ Wi-Fi or radar for sleep tracking to acoustics using sounds like white noise or binaural beats for relaxation. Transcranial electrical stimulation devices offer non-invasive brain stimulation for anxiety and insomnia, undergoing FDA classification and usage for varied purposes.
Innovative Devices and Approaches
Innovations extend to devices under brands like DreamPad or BedJet that aim to improve sleep by adjusting temperature, providing massages, or incorporating vibrations. However, the effectiveness of these technologies in enhancing sleep quality remains underexplored, stressing the need for research-backed evidence in evaluating their impact.
As technology continues to permeate every aspect of our lives, the subset of sleep-related technology continues to expand. The AASM Emerging Technology committee continues to assess both clinical and consumer sleep technology. We have previously discussed consumer and clinical sleep technology that largely centered around snoring and OSA. In this episode, we talk with committee members Drs. Shalini Paruthi and Sachin Shah about the latest sleep technology for insomnia.
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