The US Food and Drug Administration has approved Zepbound, a weight loss drug, as the first prescription medication specifically designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea. The medication is expected to be used in conjunction with diet and exercise to help manage symptoms. If left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues such as cardiovascular problems, diabetes, stroke, and dementia.
According to recent studies, Zepbound has shown significant improvement in sleep apnea symptoms compared to a placebo, including reduced interruptions during sleep. The medication works by helping people shed pounds, which also eases symptoms of obesity-related sleep disorders.
Insurance companies may face increased pressure to cover obesity medications due to the FDA approval, as some plans have already tightened restrictions on coverage. Zepbound’s maker, Eli Lilly, announced that patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea can use the medication.
While Medicare currently does not cover weight loss drugs prescribed solely for this purpose, it may be able to cover an obesity medication that treats a secondary condition like obstructive sleep apnea. The Biden administration has proposed changing this restriction.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/20/well/zepbound-sleep-apnea.html