Healthtech startup SoundHealth scores $7M to launch the world’s first FDA-authorized AI device for allergies and rhinitis

Healthtech startup SoundHealth has raised a $7 million seed funding round led by Moai Capital and J4 Ventures, with participation from additional investors including TeleSoft Partners, Tau Ventures, TechU Ventures, and Rhythm Venture Capital.

This financing round also comes with the launch of SONU, the world’s first FDA-authorized, AI-enabled wearable device for treating nasal congestion caused by both allergic and non-allergic rhinitis.

SONU stands out as the first over-the-counter, at-home treatment device approved by the FDA’s De Novo classification, offering a non-pharmaceutical alternative for managing moderate to severe nasal congestion. This device, coupled with its accompanying app, expands treatment options for both patients and physicians, presenting a safer, drug-free choice compared to traditional medications.

“SONU’s vibroacoustic therapy presents an exciting, non-invasive treatment for my patients experiencing nasal congestion. Replacing medication with this scientifically proven therapy is a significant advancement,” noted a leading medical professional.

Sonu

Alongside the funding announcement, SoundHealth revealed that Peter Moran, a prominent early-stage investor in digital health and wellness and former managing partner at DCM Ventures, will join the SoundHealth board of directors. Moran brings a wealth of experience and a track record of successful investments in pioneering health tech startups.

Moran expressed his enthusiasm about the potential of SONU, highlighting the growing investor interest in high-efficacy, non-pharmaceutical solutions. “SONU is using the latest medical science to provide a game-changing and liberating alternative treatment for nasal congestion. I look forward to working with SoundHealth’s tenured team in helping many people find relief from nasal congestion with this simple yet powerful, non-invasive device.”

Founded in 2019, SoundHealth leverages artificial intelligence and medical science to develop solutions that help people manage their allergies in collaboration with healthcare providers.

“We are thrilled to announce the close of our seed-round investment,” said Dr. Paramesh Gopi, founder and CEO of SoundHealth. “The proceeds will be used for the product launch and advancing our pipeline of indications for the SONU device. Our mission is to provide personalized, intelligent wearables to help people breathe and sleep better.”

Amit Garg, managing partner of Tau Ventures, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the ease and efficacy of SONU in providing drug-free allergy relief. “We were especially struck by how quick and easy SONU can bring relief to allergies, without using a drug. Future applications could include helping with sleep and stress.”

SONU employs acoustic vibrational energy to deliver personalized relief for nasal congestion. Studies have shown that acoustic vibration associated with humming can reduce symptoms of nasal congestion, potentially through modulation of autonomic inputs to the nasal mucosa or nitric oxide activity, leading to decongestant and anti-inflammatory effects.

The clinical efficacy of SONU’s acoustic resonance therapy has been documented in an article published by the International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology. Dr. Peter Hwang, MD, FARS, founder and Head of Research at SoundHealth, co-authored the study and discussed these findings at the American Rhinologic Society’s 13th Annual Summer Sinus Symposium.

SoundHealth is backed by prominent investors including  Moai Capital, J4 Ventures, TeleSoft Partners, Tau Ventures, TechU Ventures, Rhythm Venture Capital, and Peter Moran.