The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Eli Lilly’s Zepbound (tirzepatide) as the first prescription medication for treating moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults with obesity.
OSA is a condition where the upper airway becomes blocked during sleep, leading to pauses in breathing. Traditionally, treatments have involved lifestyle changes and devices like Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines. Zepbound, initially developed for type 2 diabetes and later approved for weight management, has now been recognized for its efficacy in reducing OSA symptoms.
The approval of Zepbound represents a groundbreaking advancement in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), particularly for adults with obesity. Unlike traditional therapies such as CPAP devices, which many patients find uncomfortable or challenging to use, Zepbound offers a convenient, non-invasive alternative. By targeting the underlying metabolic and weight-related factors contributing to OSA, the medication not only reduces sleep interruptions but also supports significant weight loss, a critical component in managing the condition. Experts view this as a transformative step in addressing the health and lifestyle burdens associated with OSA, providing hope for millions who struggle with its effects.
Clinical trials demonstrated that Zepbound significantly reduced the number of breathing interruptions during sleep. Participants experienced up to 25 fewer interruptions per hour, and nearly half no longer exhibited OSA symptoms after one year of treatment. Additionally, patients achieved an average weight loss of 20% from their baseline weight.
This approval marks a significant advancement in OSA treatment, offering a pharmacological option for patients who may struggle with existing therapies. Eli Lilly’s executive vice-president, Patrik Jonsson, emphasized that nearly half of clinical trial patients with moderate-to-severe OSA “saw such improvements that they no longer had symptoms” when taking Zepbound.
The FDA recommends that Zepbound be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to enhance its effectiveness. This development provides a new avenue for managing OSA in adults with obesity, potentially improving the quality of life for millions affected by this condition.
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