Freespira a new, non-pharmaceutical treatment for panic disorder

A novel non-drug treatment, the Freespira Breathing System, can train individuals with panic disorder to adjust their breathing, reducing the number of panic attack occurrences substantially—all at home.

Individuals with panic disorder have a different breathing pattern than others, even during times when they are not having a panic attack. Scientists have proved this difference through research that has shown varying respiration rates and exhaled CO2 levels between those with panic disorder (PD) and those without it.

“This research was used as a basis to develop techniques to teach patients with PD how to adjust their breathing patterns and exhaled CO2 levels.” (www.freespira.com)  The protocol, used to teach patients with PD how to control their breathing, that was created as a result was used in clinical trials at Stanford University and Boston University. Subsequently, after validating the success of the protocol, the Freespira Breathing System was developed.

The Freespira Breathing System, which was only recently approved by the FDA, consists of a tablet and a highly precise, proprietary sensor which measures the carbon dioxide levels in an exhaled breath. The system will then send the data to an app on the included tablet. “Breathing information is displayed on the Tablet, and the App provides verbal and visual prompts, guiding you in adjusting your breathing pattern to optimize your CO2 level and respiration rate.” (www.freespira.com)

The new technology is, as aforementioned, drug-free, and allows patients to learn how to control their breathing at home. It has been clinically proven that the system has the potential to reduce and even eliminate panic attacks; 68% of patients became panic-free and 96% of patients had reported a significant reduction in their panic symptoms.the-freespira-breathing-system-is-cleared-by-the-FDA-as-a-non-drug-treatment-for-panic-attacks1-940x380