Sleep soundly again? The drug that may change the treatment of sleep apnea

A new study presented at the American Heart Association conference found that a daily weight-loss pill, orforglipron, reduced breathing pauses by about 18 per hour among 712 overweight adults with obstructive sleep apnea, along with improvements in blood pressure and weight.

A new study presented at the American Heart Association conference found that a daily weight-loss pill, orforglipron, significantly reduced breathing disturbances among 712 adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and excess weight. Participants taking the drug experienced an average of about 18 fewer breathing pauses per hour, compared to five in the placebo group. Additionally, there was a reduction of up to 51% in dangerous oxygen desaturation events, an average 11% decrease in body weight, and a drop of about seven points in blood pressure—compared to about three points with CPAP. The researchers emphasize that the pill is not a complete replacement for CPAP but may be an option for patients who struggle to adapt to the mask. Common side effects were mild to moderate and included nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. Dr. Vishnavi Kundal, the lead researcher, noted that if the drug is approved, it could become a promising oral treatment option.