Combining Low Oxygen Therapy and an Adenosine A2a Receptor Antagonist to Improve Functional Mobility After Spinal Cord Injury

About this trial

This trial is enrolling individuals with chronic incomplete spinal cord injuries to see if a drug (Istradefylline) enhances the effects of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia (AIH) training on walking function. Istradefylline is used as an adjunct drug in patients with Parkinson's disease to reduce overactivity in specific brain regions. AIH is an intervention of repeatedly breathing air with low oxygen content for brief periods, alternating with breathing room air with normal oxygen content. AIH is believed to increase spinal plasticity (strengthening nerve pathways based on new experiences), and improve walking function. If included, participants will undergo either: 1) AIH (4 sessions/week for 2 weeks) in combination with ingesting a 20mg Istradefylline tablet daily starting 14 days prior to the first AIH intervention and for 14 days after; or 2) AIH + placebo, or 3) Istradefylline + sham AIH. During the trial, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and heart rate will be monitored, as well as sleep quality and pain levels. The study will measure walking speed and distance.