Researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, collaborating with international partners, have conducted a comprehensive global study highlighting tirzepatide’s potential as a groundbreaking treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Initially recognized for its efficacy in managing type 2 diabetes, tirzepatide has shown promising results in addressing OSA. Under the guidance of Malhotra, recent studies indicate that around 936 million individuals globally experience OSA.
The study published in the recent issue of The New England Journal of Medicine, emphasizes the potency of tirzepatide in improving the quality of life for millions impacted by OSA. The condition involves partial or complete airway collapse during sleep, leading to lowered oxygen levels or interrupted sleep patterns, characterized by symptoms like loud snoring and daytime fatigue. Sleep-disordered breathing is prevalent globally, often caused by negative pressure collapsing the upper airway during inhalation.
Tirzepatide, known as “twincretin,” acts as a synthetic polypeptide dual agonist for GLP-1 and GIP. Derived from a 39-amino acid analog of gastric inhibitory polypeptide, tirzepatide distinctively stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas, thereby lowering hyperglycemia.
In two double-blinded, randomized Phase III trials, involving 469 participants with clinical obesity and moderate-to-severe OSA across multiple sites in nine countries, including the U.S., Australia, and Germany, researchers evaluated tirzepatide’s effects over 52 weeks. Some participants used continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, while others did not. Participants received injections of either 10 or 15 mg of tirzepatide or a placebo.
The study found that tirzepatide significantly reduced interruptions in sleep-related breathing compared to the placebo, with some participants potentially no longer needing CPAP therapy. This dual benefit targeting both sleep apnea and obesity holds significant promise, addressing risk factors for cardiovascular disease and aiding weight loss. The most common side effect observed was mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
Traditionally managed with CPAP machines, which require consistent use for effectiveness, OSA now has an alternative treatment option in tirzepatide, especially beneficial for patients unable to comply with current therapies. Researchers advocate for integrating CPAP with weight loss strategies to enhance overall cardiometabolic health and symptom relief. The targeted approach of tirzepatide towards sleep apnea mechanisms signifies a new era in personalized treatment strategies. This breakthrough promises improved care for individuals and families affected by OSA, with ongoing efforts focused on long-term clinical trials to further evaluate tirzepatide’s effects.
Reference:
- Malhotra Atul, Grunstein Ronald R., Fietze Ingo, Weaver Terri E., Redline Susan, Azarbarzin Ali, et al. Tirzepatide for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine [Internet]. [cited 2024 Jun 22];0(0). Available from: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2404881
- Slowik JM, Sankari A, Collen JF. Obstructive Sleep Apnea. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 [cited 2024 Jun 22]. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459252/
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