
Introduction
On 20 December 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Zepbound® (tirzepatide) as the first prescription medicine to treat moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults with obesity. Developed by Eli Lilly and Company, Zepbound not only improves OSA symptoms but also promotes significant weight loss. This innovative treatment combines medical science with practical lifestyle changes, offering new hope to millions of adults.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
OSA is a common but often overlooked sleep disorder characterised by:
Partial or complete collapses of the upper airway during sleep.
Breathing pauses (apnea) or shallow breathing (hypopnea).
Reduced oxygen levels and disrupted sleep patterns.
Key symptoms include loud snoring, fatigue, excessive daytime sleepiness, and restless sleep. Left untreated, OSA can increase the risk of serious health issues, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Why Zepbound Stands Out
Zepbound® is the first FDA-approved medication to address OSA and obesity simultaneously. Clinical trials reveal that Zepbound significantly reduces breathing interruptions during sleep and aids in long-term weight management.
Average Weight Loss: Up to 20% body weight reduction.
Improved Breathing: 25 fewer breathing interruptions per hour compared to a placebo.
Symptom Remission: 50% of participants reported no OSA symptoms after one year.
“Too often, OSA is brushed off as ‘just snoring,’ but it’s far more serious,” explains Julie Flygare, President of Project Sleep. “Zepbound provides an important new option for patients and health care providers to tackle this condition effectively.”
The Science Behind Zepbound
Zepbound contains tirzepatide, a dual-acting glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. This mechanism reduces appetite and calorie intake, tackling one of the root causes of obesity-linked OSA.
Key Findings from SURMOUNT-OSA Trials
The FDA’s approval of Zepbound is based on the results of the SURMOUNT-OSA phase 3 clinical trials. Highlights include:
Reduction in Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI):
25 fewer breathing interruptions per hour without positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy.
29 fewer breathing interruptions per hour with PAP therapy.
Symptom Improvement:
42% of participants experienced remission or mild OSA.
50% of participants using PAP therapy achieved similar results.
Weight Loss:
Average of 45 lbs (18%) weight loss without PAP therapy.
Average of 50 lbs (20%) weight loss with PAP therapy.
Usage and Safety
Zepbound is intended for use alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It is administered as a weekly subcutaneous injection, with doses gradually increased to a maximum tolerated level.
Warnings and Precautions
Thyroid Tumours: Zepbound may cause thyroid tumours, including thyroid cancer.
Allergic Reactions: Avoid if you have a history of severe allergic reactions to tirzepatide.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Report severe or persistent stomach problems to your healthcare provider.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Injection site reactions
Who Should Avoid Zepbound?
Zepbound is not suitable for individuals who:
Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
Suffer from Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
A Step Towards Better Health
Zepbound’s approval marks a significant advancement in the treatment of OSA and obesity. “Millions of undiagnosed and untreated cases of OSA place people at serious health risks,” says Patrik Jonsson, Executive Vice President at Eli Lilly. “Zepbound provides an effective solution, addressing both OSA and obesity to improve health outcomes.”
Learn More
For detailed prescribing information, visit Zepbound’s official website. For additional questions, consult your healthcare provider or contact Eli Lilly at 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979).
References
U.S. FDA Approval Announcement – December 2024.
SURMOUNT-OSA Clinical Trial Results.
Project Sleep: Insights on OSA and Zepbound’s Impact.