The purpose of this research study is to determine the effects of a medication,
istradefylline, in conjunction with breathing air with reduced oxygen for short periods of
time (called acute intermittent hypoxia, or AIH), on breathing. This project will study
breathing in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and unaffected, age-matched
adults. Istradefylline is prescribed to increase movement in people with other neuromuscular
conditions. A recently completed study found that people with ALS took deeper breaths, 60
minutes after using AIH.