Zepbound, a weight loss drug, is now approved by the FDA to treat obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. The medication, generically known as tirzepatide, was authorized on December 20 for “treatment of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults with obesity.”
The FDA recommends combining Zepbound with a calorie-reduced diet and increased exercise to manage the condition. Sleep apnea occurs when an individual’s upper airway is blocked, causing pauses in breathing during sleep.
Two studies conducted by the FDA found that Zepbound significantly reduces sleep apnea symptoms in obese adults over 52 weeks. The treatment was effective for both those using a CPAP machine and those not using one.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) supports the FDA’s new authorization but notes that Zepbound is not an option for everyone, particularly those with underlying structural issues such as jaw and upper airway problems.
To maintain effectiveness, patients taking Zepbound should continue to lose weight. This approval marks a major step forward in treating obstructive sleep apnea, offering an additional treatment option for certain patients.
Source: https://people.com/zepbound-treat-sleep-apnea-approved-fda-8766411