What Is RESPeRATE and How Does It Work?

What is RESPeRATE? It is the world’s only FDA-cleared, non-invasive medical device for lowering blood pressure. It is not a drug and has no side effects. The FDA cleared RESPeRATE for over-the-counter sale in 2002. That clearance remains in effect today, reflecting more than two decades of consistent, validated performance.

RESPeRATE at a Glance

• FDA-cleared to lower blood pressure without a prescription since 2002
• Clinically proven to deliver a sustained reduction in high blood pressure within a few weeks
• Safe to use alongside blood pressure medications and other lifestyle treatments
• No side effects
• Used by more than 250,000 Americans

How RESPeRATE Lowers Blood Pressure

RESPeRATE uses patented device-guided breathing technology. It relaxes constricted blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. A breathing sensor worn around the abdomen or chest picks up your natural inhale and exhale pattern. RESPeRATE then composes a personalized melody in real time — two distinct guiding tones, one for inhaling and one for exhaling.

The body naturally follows external rhythms. RESPeRATE uses that tendency to its advantage. By gradually prolonging the exhale tone, the device guides you into a therapeutic breathing zone of five to seven breaths per minute — no conscious effort or concentration needed.

In scientific terms, RESPeRATE reduces sympathetic nervous system activity, producing a sustained decrease in peripheral resistance and arterial stiffness. Breathing returns to normal after each session, but the blood pressure benefit accumulates with regular use

How Much Can RESPeRATE Lower Blood Pressure?

A published review of RESPeRATE’s initial seven clinical studies — including randomized controlled trials — found the device lowered high blood pressure by an average of 14 points systolic and 8 points diastolic, on top of concurrent medications and lifestyle modifications. More than 50 published clinical studies across the US, Europe, Middle East, and Far East have since confirmed RESPeRATE’s safety and efficacy. The studies also found RESPeRATE effective in patients with comorbidities including diabetes, chronic kidney failure, gestational hypertension, pulmonary arterial hypertension, heart failure, COPD, PTSD, and more. Gender and medication status did not affect the reductions. See the full body of evidence on our Clinical Proof page.

RESPeRATE Has a Normalizing Effect

People with higher starting blood pressure see an even larger reduction. In clinical studies, people with a starting systolic above 160 averaged a 25.6-point reduction. Those starting below 150 averaged a 9.6-point reduction. RESPeRATE targets chronic high blood pressure, not acute spikes. If your blood pressure spikes to dangerous levels, contact your doctor immediately.

The Recommended Course of Treatment

Studies show RESPeRATE delivers significant blood pressure reductions when used for 15 minutes at a time, at least three to four times per week, to reach 40 or more total minutes of slow breathing (under 10 breaths per minute with prolonged exhalation) weekly. Additional use provides further reductions. Daily use is recommended — there is no risk of using the device too often.

Most people experience significant blood pressure reductions within a few weeks. Results accumulate into a sustained drop by around week eight. With regular use, RESPeRATE provides a sustained blood pressure reduction. Like exercise, the benefits depend on continuing routine use over time.

Is RESPeRATE the Same as Yoga or Meditation?

No. Yoga, meditation, and RESPeRATE all share the same underlying principle — that structured breathing benefits the body. RESPeRATE, however, stands alone as the only method that well-designed clinical studies have repeatedly proven to lower blood pressure.

The key difference is conscious effort. Unaided breathing techniques like yoga and meditation require concentration, which can raise sympathetic nervous system activity and undermine blood pressure reduction. RESPeRATE’s device-guided approach uses the body’s natural tendency to follow external rhythms. It delivers the therapeutic benefit of slow breathing without any conscious effort.

Who Can Use RESPeRATE?

All adults can use RESPeRATE. The FDA cleared it for use without a prescription, confirming that RESPeRATE combines safely with medications and lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise. RESPeRATE has no contraindications, meaning anyone can use it, though anyone with a history of any of the following conditions should consult their physician first: active ischemic heart disease or unstable angina, bradycardia, severe congestive heart failure, chronic atrial fibrillation, stroke resulting in permanent impairment, chronic renal failure, severe asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, major organ failure, sleep paralysis, having a pacemaker, or pregnancy.

It’s advisable not to use RESPeRATE while driving or operating heavy machinery, since some users may feel drowsy during sessions. Use RESPeRATE as part of an overall health program for reaching your blood pressure goals, as your doctor recommends, alongside medication and lifestyle changes.

Is There a RESPeRATE App?

No. RESPeRATE is the only medical device the FDA has evaluated and cleared specifically for lowering blood pressure.

What’s in the Box?

Every RESPeRATE package includes a computerized control unit, a breathing sensor, a set of earbuds, a cloth storage bag, a quick start guide, a complete user manual, and 4 AA batteries.

Is RESPeRATE Covered by Insurance?

As an FDA-cleared medical device, RESPeRATE qualifies for reimbursement through Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA). RESPeRATE is not currently covered by Medicare, but it may be covered by your medical insurance plan.

Do Doctors Recommend RESPeRATE?

Physicians around the country recommend RESPeRATE to their patients as a clinically proven blood pressure reduction method that works alongside medication and lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise. The American Heart Association’s statement on non-pharmacological blood pressure options notes that overall evidence from clinical trials and meta-analyses supports device-guided slow breathing as a significant blood pressure reducer. The AHA does not specifically endorse individual products or brands. You can download a clinical information package to share with your doctor.

Summary

RESPeRATE is the only FDA-cleared, non-drug device proven to lower blood pressure through guided breathing, with a clearance that has stood since 2002 and a clinical record spanning more than 50 published studies. Used consistently, just 15 minutes a few times a week, it delivers measurable, accumulating blood pressure reductions, with the largest benefits for those who need them most. RESPeRATE works alongside your physician-directed treatment plan, never as a replacement for it. Discover RESPeRATE or read real customer reviews.