NABU develops a targeted therapy for oropharyngeal dysphagia, the condition where patients cannot safely swallow. Its lead product, NABU‑101, is a spray administered to the back of the throat that helps restore normal swallowing of food, liquids, saliva, and medications. The approach aims to address a large unmet need by providing a non‑invasive, drug‑based solution for patients with swallowing impairments.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) is the inability to move food, liquid, saliva, or medication from the back of the mouth into the esophagus, leading to choking, aspiration, malnutrition, and reduced quality of life.
Solution
NABU‑101 is a throat‑spray formulation designed to be applied directly to the posterior oropharynx, where it creates a lubricating and sensory‑modulating layer that eases the passage of bolus material. By targeting the physiological mechanisms that trigger safe swallowing, the spray helps users achieve more reliable and efficient deglutition without the need for invasive devices or extensive therapy sessions. The product is intended for use in clinical, home, and long‑term care settings, allowing patients and caregivers to administer it quickly and safely. Clinical data support its ability to reduce aspiration events and improve swallowing confidence.
Target Audience
Primary customers are individuals with oropharyngeal dysphagia and their caregivers, as well as speech‑language pathologists, gastroenterologists, and long‑term care facilities that manage swallowing disorders.
Features
- Metered spray delivery to the back of the throat for precise dosing
- Formulation combines lubricating agents with sensory enhancers to promote coordinated swallow reflexes
- Compatible with a wide range of diets, liquids, and oral medications
- Simple, non‑invasive administration that can be performed by patients or caregivers without specialized training
- Designed for use in acute, chronic, and rehabilitative care environments