Frequently Asked Questions

Bongo Rx is very small and simple to use. Bongo Rx does not require a machine, mask, hose, electricity, or even batteries. You simply place the Bongo Rx airway dilators just inside your nostrils where the soft silicone device seals the nasal passages. Your own breathing activates the device. During inhalation, small valves open to allow you to breathe in normally through the device. Then, during exhalation, the valves close, directing the exhaled air through specifically designed vent holes to create back pressure to keep your airway open until you inhale again. Creating back pressure during exhalation is also known as EPAP (Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure).

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) creates pressure continuously during both inhalation and exhalation. The Bongo Rx device creates pressure only on exhalation.
• CPAP uses forced air generated by an electrical machine, while Bongo Rx uses the patient’s own breathing to generate back pressure.
• CPAP therapy typically requires a CPAP machine, a humidifier, a hose, and a bulky mask that must be tightened down. Bongo Rx is simply inserted just inside the nostrils and requires no machine or power.

For those who cannot tolerate CPAP, cannot get or afford CPAP, or do not want to try CPAP, Bongo Rx may be an effective CPAP alternative. Learn more: Bongo Rx CPAP Alternative

Yes, Bongo Rx has been reviewed and cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the treatment of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In the U.S., all devices intended to treat sleep apnea are considered class II medical devices and must be reviewed and cleared by the FDA specifically for treating sleep apnea (not just for treating snoring).

Yes, clinical testing was conducted to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of Bongo Rx and testing was reviewed by the FDA. Results demonstrated that the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) was significantly reduced while using Bongo Rx compared to the patients’ baseline diagnostic test. There were no serious adverse events.

Yes, in the United States, all devices that treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) require a prescription. Please click here for assistance with getting a prescription for Bongo Rx.

Bongo Rx was designed for people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

For example those who are:

• Newly diagnosed without significant comorbidities to use as a first line sleep apnea treatment option.
• Unable to get a CPAP, do not qualify for CPAP, or cannot afford CPAP because of high deductibles, or high co-payments.
• No longer using their CPAP and looking for a user-friendly alternative.
• Using their CPAP, but need a device to use while traveling, camping, or any time electricity may not be available.

Bongo Rx was designed for easy, contactless setup. Start with Part Number BNG500 (Bongo Rx All Sizes Starter Kit). This kit includes all four sizes (SM, MD, LG, and XL) and allows you to take your time at home finding the size that fits you best. We recommend that you try all four sizes before selecting your final size. The Bongo Rx All Sizes Kit also comes with headgear, travel case, and drying stand.

Learn more: Fitting Bongo Rx

Yes, Bongo Rx is reusable and may be cleaned with simple soap and water per the instructions for up to 90 days.

Learn more: Cleaning Bongo Rx

After you select your preferred size from the Starter Kit and begin using Bongo Rx, we recommend replacing it every 90 days to maintain optimal performance.

Choose from one of the following resupply options:

• Annual Replenishment Pack – includes four Bongo Rx devices of a specific size (SM, MD, LG, or XL) as well headgear, travel case, and drying stand
• Single Replenishment Unit – includes one Bongo Rx device of a specific size (SM, MD, LG, or XL) and headgear.

Yes, Bongo Rx comes with an optional headgear accessory. Bongo Rx can be worn with or without the headgear, depending on your preference.

Learn more: Bongo Rx Optional Headgear

Bongo Rx is made in the USA. Specifically, the tooling was made in the USA, the device parts are all molded in the USA, and it is assembled in the USA. Bongo Rx was also designed in the USA by the AirAvant Medical product engineering team.

Bongo Rx, like many CPAP alternative sleep apnea therapy devices, is not a covered item under medical insurance plans. However, you may find that it costs less than your typical out-of-pocket costs (e.g. co-pays, co-insurance) for your CPAP machine and for your CPAP supplies (e.g. CPAP masks, CPAP tubing, CPAP filters) that you have to constantly buy with CPAP.

Also, you should be able to utilize health savings plans, such as FSA (Flexible Spending Account) and HSA (Health Savings Account), for the Bongo Rx since it is a prescription device for the treatment of the disease sleep apnea. We recommend that you check with your FSA/HSA and insurance provider if you have questions.

There are several key differences. Bongo Rx has soft, silicone nasal dilating seals instead of an adhesive seal. It is also reusable. Bongo Rx acts as an airway dilator. Bongo Rx comes in 4 different sizes. Bongo Rx has both lower inspiratory and expiratory resistance.

Learn more: Bongo Rx vs. Provent

Bongo Rx is currently available in several other countries, including Canada, Japan, and Australia. This revolutionary sleep apnea therapy device will soon be available in more countries. Please contact us to learn more about the availability of Bongo Rx in your country.

Bongo Rx is intuitive and easy to use since it does not require assembly or disassembly. It can even be put on in the dark. With any new treatment, it is important to acknowledge that there may be an acclimation period. It may take you several days to get used to your Bongo Rx sleep apnea therapy device, especially if you have never tried other options like CPAP.

Here are a few tips to help you acclimate to Bongo Rx:

• Experiment with Sizing – Try all four sizes. Start with the SM size. Make sure the nasal seals are not too deep and that they seal comfortably.
• Practice Exhaling – You will feel a small resistance when exhaling letting you know the device is properly working. Also, it is okay to exhale through your mouth occasionally when wearing the device until you fall asleep as people generally switch to nasal breathing once asleep.
• Relax and Start Slow – You may want to first wear the device while you are reading or watching TV to get used to the feel. Minimize activity while wearing the device and just try to relax.
• Experiment with and Without Headgear – Try the device first without the headgear. Second, try the headgear with the different sizes until you find the right combination for you.
• Repeat – If you wake up feeling uncomfortable during the night, take the device off and try again tomorrow.
• Commit – Some people adjust to Bongo Rx therapy right away; others need more time. Give it the time you need considering the positive benefits of treating your sleep apnea.

To watch instructional videos for the Bongo Rx, please click here.