Inspire vs CPAP: Complete Comparison
Understanding the differences between Inspire therapy and CPAP to help you make an informed decision about your sleep apnea treatment.
Inspire Therapy
Best For:
Patients who have tried and cannot tolerate CPAP, travel frequently, or prioritize comfort and convenience.
CPAP Therapy
Best For:
Patients seeking immediate treatment, comfortable with masks, or wanting to avoid surgery.
Detailed Comparison
| Category | Inspire Therapy | CPAP Therapy |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment Method | Implanted device with hypoglossal nerve stimulation | External machine with mask and air pressure |
| AHI Reduction | 79% median reduction | 90-95% reduction when used properly |
| Adherence Rate | 86% at 5 years | 30-50% at 1 year |
| Patient Satisfaction | 94% satisfaction rate | 50-70% satisfaction rate |
| Partner Satisfaction | 90% bed partner satisfaction | 60% bed partner satisfaction |
| Equipment Required | Small remote control only | Machine, mask, hose, water chamber |
| Travel Convenience | No equipment needed | Must carry machine and supplies |
| Initial Cost | $30,000-$40,000 (often covered by insurance) | $500-$3,000 (often covered by insurance) |
| Surgery Required | Yes - outpatient procedure | No surgery needed |
| Time to Treatment | 3-6 months evaluation process | Immediate after sleep study |
| Side Effects | Tongue soreness, dry mouth (temporary) | Mask discomfort, dry nose, claustrophobia |
| Maintenance | Battery replacement every 11 years | Regular mask/filter replacement, daily cleaning |
Key Differences Explained
Lifestyle Impact
Inspire offers freedom from nightly equipment setup, while CPAP requires consistent mask wearing and machine maintenance every night.
Treatment Timeline
CPAP can start immediately after diagnosis, while Inspire requires a 3-6 month evaluation and surgical procedure before treatment begins.
Cost Considerations
While Inspire has higher upfront costs, both treatments are typically covered by insurance when medical criteria are met.
Effectiveness
Both treatments are highly effective when used properly. The key difference is adherence - Inspire shows 86% vs CPAP's 30-50% long-term use.
Comfort Level
Inspire works internally without masks or hoses, while CPAP requires finding the right mask fit and adjusting to air pressure.
Candidacy
CPAP is suitable for most sleep apnea patients, while Inspire requires specific criteria including CPAP intolerance and BMI under 32.
Clinical Evidence & Studies
Inspire Clinical Results
Source: STAR Trial 5-year outcomes, published in Sleep Medicine
CPAP Clinical Results
Source: Multiple studies, American Academy of Sleep Medicine
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Consider Inspire If You:
- Have tried CPAP and cannot tolerate it
- Travel frequently for work or leisure
- Experience claustrophobia with masks
- Have moderate to severe OSA (AHI 15-65)
- Have a BMI under 32
Consider CPAP If You:
- Want to start treatment immediately
- Prefer to avoid surgery
- Are comfortable with wearing a mask
- Have very severe OSA (AHI >65)
- Want the lowest initial cost option
Important Medical Information
This comparison is for educational purposes only. The choice between Inspire and CPAP should be made in consultation with a qualified sleep medicine specialist who can evaluate your specific condition, medical history, and treatment goals.
Both treatments are FDA-approved and have proven effective for treating obstructive sleep apnea. Success with either treatment depends on proper patient selection, device optimization, and consistent use.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Take our qualification quiz to see if you're a candidate for Inspire therapy, or find a specialist near you to discuss your treatment options.