On Dec. 20, Eli Lilly introduced the Meals and Drug Administration has accepted the injectable prescription drugs Zepbound (tirzepatide) for adults with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea and weight problems. The American Academy of Sleep Medication supplies the next assertion for sufferers and clinicians.
AASM assertion on Zepbound approval
The FDA approval of Zepbound for reasonable to extreme obstructive sleep apnea in adults with weight problems is a optimistic growth for sufferers and clinicians, who now have one other therapy choice for this sleep problem. A sleep doctor and the staff of sleep specialists at an AASM-accredited sleep middle can assist sufferers who’ve sleep apnea decide if Zepbound is acceptable for them. Different therapy choices for sleep apnea embody optimistic airway strain remedy, oral equipment remedy, surgical procedure, and higher airway stimulation.
The AASM reminds sufferers that Zepbound is just efficient for circumstances of sleep apnea which can be associated to weight problems. Though extra physique weight is the main predisposing issue for sleep apnea, many circumstances of sleep apnea are associated to different components such because the construction of the jaw and higher airway. Whereas Zepbound can cut back the severity of sleep apnea, it might not remedy the illness. Subsequently, for some sufferers who’ve sleep apnea, combining one other therapy with Zepbound could also be splendid. Moreover, weight reduction from Zepbound should be maintained over time to proceed experiencing a profit for sleep apnea.
The AASM additionally reminds sufferers that Zepbound is related to a threat of potential well being problems and unwanted effects. These well being dangers are described on the FDA-approved drug label for Zepbound. Sufferers ought to talk about these dangers with their physician.
Anybody who has a sleep downside can use the AASM’s sleep middle listing to get assist from the sleep staff at an accredited sleep middle.
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For extra details about obstructive sleep apnea, or to schedule an interview with an AASM spokesperson, contact media@aasm.org.
In regards to the American Academy of Sleep Medication
Established in 1975, the AASM is a medical affiliation that advances sleep care and enhances sleep well being to enhance lives. The AASM membership consists of greater than 9,500 physicians, scientists, and different well being care professionals who assist individuals who have sleep problems. The AASM additionally accredits 2,300 sleep facilities which can be offering the best high quality of sleep care throughout the nation.
