The FDA has approved Eli Lilly’s injectable medication, Zepbound (tripeptide), for the treatment of moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. This new indication marks the first medication that is FDA-approved for managing this serious sleep disorder, which affects millions of Americans. Zepbound, already known as a weight-loss medication, targets GIP and GLP-1 hormones to regulate appetite and metabolism. Now, it offers a solution for improving sleep apnea, which is closely tied to obesity and often left untreated.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when airflow is blocked during sleep, leading to frequent interruptions in breathing and increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems. In clinical trials, Zepbound significantly reduced these disruptions. Participants in the SURMOUNT-OSA Phase 3 trials experienced 25 to 29 fewer interruptions per hour on average compared to just 5 to 6 with a placebo. Nearly half of the patients saw their condition improve to mild or remission levels. Zepbound showed significant benefits in reducing sleep apnea symptoms regardless of whether participants were already using CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines. Both groups—those using CPAP therapy and those who were not—experienced similar improvements.
Zepbound’s benefits extend beyond treating sleep apnea. The medication also supports long-term weight loss, with trial participants losing an average of 18–20% of their body weight. Other advantages commonly reported by GLP-1 medication users include improved blood sugar control, reduced inflammation and lower blood pressure. These factors are crucial in addressing the broader health risks associated with both obesity and sleep apnea.
This new approval provides hope for those who struggle with CPAP machines or need a complementary treatment. While Zepbound is not a replacement for weight-loss interventions like diet and exercise, it’s a powerful tool for addressing the challenges of both obesity and sleep apnea.
