In a bid to control chronic snoring which triggers obstructive sleep apnea, a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention, Manipal Cure & Care (MCC) has signed an memorandum of understanding with the Benson Medical Services Canberra, Australia to become the exclusive distributing partner to market Snorben, an anti snoring device in India. To begin with, the product will be available at the MCC outlets in the country and distributed later by leading pharmacy chains.

Snorben is a user-friendly, non toxic, non invasive device keeping skin intact. It is classified under the Class I low risk medical device category approved by Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia. For MCC, this is the first product under its wellness category. A number of products in the beauty segment have been already been introduced.

Snorben holds an Australian Patent with worldwide rights till 2025. The product has undergone extensive trials in Australia proving its safety and efficiency in reducing chronic snoring, obstructive sleep apnea and nasal congestion. It is recommended highly by ENT specialists in Australia as a supportive therapy to improve free oxygen flow and bring in over 85 per cent relief, Richard Benson, director, Benson Medical Services Pty Ltd. told Pharmabiz.

The device is made of medical grade silicone and can be easily clipped into the nostrils before falling asleep. The clip, made of surgical stainless steel grade, is washable and reusable up to six months. Being malleable, it provides utmost comfort to the user, informed BG Prabhakumar, International Procurement Officer, Manipal Cure & Care.

The device which is priced at Rs 300 is available in three sizes to suit small, medium and large nostrils. It can be used by age-groups above 5.

Snoring affects 40 per cent males, 20 per cent women and 12 per cent children. In India, 7.5 per cent of healthy people between 35 to 65 years snore. Sleep Disordered Breathing prevalence is 19.5 percent and incidence of obstructive sleep apnea is 75 per cent in healthy urban males between 35 to 65 years. According to a University of Leeds study, snoring could eventually lead to Alzheimer's resulting out of low oxygen level in the brain cells.
Snorben is designed to help in nasal congestion conditions and nasal disorders like collapsed/damaged/narrow nostrils and deviated septum. The device ensures that the nasal passage remains open allowing the user to breathe freely through the nose and not through the mouth. It is recommended for sportsman as it facilitates oxygen flow and prevent gasping for breath after a run.

According to Somnath Das, Chief Operating Officer, Manipal Cure & Care, Snorben holds immense potential for growth in India as a medically proven product offering which is ethically endorsed abroad.

While medical fraternity recommends surgical procedures for snoring relief, there scores of non invasive anti snoring devices available worldwide like Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), Nozovent and BreathRight strips.