Summary: The US FDA approved Zepbound (tirzepatide) on Dec 20, 2024, as a treatment for adults with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and obesity. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) responded positively to the approval but cautioned that Zepbound is only effective for obesity-related OSA and may not cure the condition. The AASM emphasized the importance of weight maintenance and advised combining Zepbound with other treatments for some patients. The AASM also highlighted potential risks and side effects of Zepbound.
Key Takeaways:
- Zepbound Approved for Obesity-Related OSA: The FDA approved Zepbound for treating moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity, offering a new treatment option.
- Limitations of Zepbound: The AASM stressed that Zepbound is effective only for obesity-related OSA and may not cure the condition. Combining it with other treatments may be necessary for some patients.
- Potential Risks and Importance of Weight Maintenance: The AASM reminded patients of the potential health risks associated with Zepbound and the need to maintain weight loss to continue experiencing benefits for sleep apnea.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Zepbound (tirzepatide) as a treatment for adults with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and obesity.
This approval, announced by Eli Lilly on Dec 20, 2024, marks a step forward in the management of OSA, according to a statement issued by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). “The FDA approval of Zepbound for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity is a positive development for patients and clinicians, who now have another treatment option for this sleep disorder,” the statement reads.
However, the AASM also highlights that Zepbound is only effective in cases of sleep apnea associated with obesity. While excess body weight is a major factor in OSA, other factors, such as jaw and upper airway structure, can also contribute to the condition. “Although excess body weight is the major predisposing factor for sleep apnea, many cases of sleep apnea are related to other factors such as the structure of the jaw and upper airway,” the statement notes.
The AASM emphasizes that while Zepbound can reduce the severity of sleep apnea, it may not cure the condition. “Therefore, for some patients who have sleep apnea, combining another treatment with Zepbound may be ideal,” the statement reads. “Furthermore, weight loss from Zepbound must be maintained over time to continue experiencing a benefit for sleep apnea.”
The organization also reminds patients that Zepbound carries potential health risks and side effects, which are outlined on the FDA-approved drug label.
For patients seeking guidance, the AASM notes that sleep physicians and experts at AASM-accredited sleep centers can help patients who have sleep apnea determine if Zepbound is appropriate for them. The AASM provides a directory to locate sleep centers and professionals.
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