Are GLP-1 Drugs a Replacement for Other OSA Treatments?
Despite the clear benefits of Zepbound for OSA, this GLP-1 drug isn’t a replacement for conventional OSA treatment, including the CPAP machine. “I think of these treatments as addressing different aspects of OSA,” says Tu. For example, a CPAP machine can help you have better sleep right away (thanks to helping keep your airways open, which allows you to breathe freely). However, a patient on a tirzepatide may need 6 to 12 months on the medication before doctors see meaningful improvement in OSA severity, says Ashraf.
“Sleepiness symptoms and sleep disruption will improve faster with starting a CPAP than with weight loss, so I usually recommend patients start CPAP first or CPAP with tirzepatide,” says Ashraf. “But if a patient is very hesitant to start CPAP, we can start with focusing on weight reduction first,” says Ashraf. Also, reassessment is key. “After significant weight loss, repeat sleep testing can help determine whether OSA severity or PAP requirements have changed,” says Tu.
Just know: In the same studies that looked at taking a tirzepatide for OSA treatment, notably 50 percent or more still had sleep apnea severe enough to require other treatment, such as ongoing CPAP or other therapy, explains Ashraf.
“Oftentimes, side effects improve after a couple of weeks, but if they do not, I recommend stopping the medication,” says Ashraf.
Finally, using Zepbound is not a quick fix for OSA. “It is also important to know there is a high likelihood that weight will return if the medication is stopped, even after dietary and lifestyle changes have been implemented,” says Ashraf. “I advise patients that we expect them to be taking this medication or another similar medication possibly for the rest of their life,” Ashraf adds.
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