FDA Approval of Zepbound for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

SOURCE www.foxnews.com
FDA approves first medication for obstructive sleep apnea, Zepbound, which helps promote more restful sleep through weight loss. The drug activates hormones to reduce appetite and food intake, improving OSA symptoms. Side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and thyroid C-cell tumor risk.

Key Points

  • Zepbound activates hormones to reduce appetite and food intake
  • Improves OSA symptoms by reducing body weight
  • Can cause side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and thyroid C-cell tumor risk

Pros

  • First drug treatment option for obstructive sleep apnea patients
  • Promotes weight loss and reduces apnea events
  • Offers alternative or adjunctive treatment for non-adherent PAP patients

Cons

  • Side effects like nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and potential thyroid C-cell tumor risk
  • Not recommended for patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to tirzepatide