A New Tool to Manage Obesity and Sleep Apnea with CPAP Co-Therapy
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It is strongly associated with obesity, though it can affect anyone. A new treatment option, ZepBound (by Eli Lilly) a GLP-1 medication, offers hope for those managing both obesity and moderate to severe OSA, particularly when combined with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.
"This GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medication is a significant step forward for individuals with obesity and sleep apnea. When used alongside consistent CPAP therapy and lifestyle changes, it can substantially improve symptoms, supporting better sleep and long-term health," says Robert Miller, Apria's Vice President of Sleep Business.
What Is This GLP-1 Medication, Zepbound?
This GLP-1 medication is an injectable drug designed to promote weight loss. Approved by the FDA, it is the first of its kind authorized for adults with both obesity and moderate to severe OSA. Administered weekly via injection under the skin (e.g., stomach, arm, or thigh), it targets hormones involved in digestion, reducing hunger and increasing feelings of fullness to support sustained weight loss.
Who Can Use This Medication?
The medication is intended for adults diagnosed with:
- Moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, and
- Obesity
It is not approved for those with mild sleep apnea or without obesity.
How Does It Help with Sleep Apnea?
For individuals with obesity and OSA, this GLP-1 medication can improve sleep apnea symptoms, but its effectiveness depends on several factors:
- Time: Benefits typically emerge after about one year of consistent use.
- Limitations: If OSA stems from non-weight-related causes, such as jaw structure, the medication may be less effective.
- CPAP as Co-Therapy: The medication is not a cure. Optimal results occur when it is used alongside CPAP therapy, which remains essential for many patients even after weight loss.
Clinical evidence highlights that patients who combine CPAP with this medication achieve the best outcomes, with weight loss contributing to reduced OSA symptoms over time.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
Coverage varies by health insurance provider. For those with Medicare Part D, the medication may be covered. Contact your insurance provider for specific details.
This GLP-1 medication provides a valuable option for managing obesity and moderate to severe OSA. While not a standalone solution or CPAP replacement, it enhances outcomes when integrated into a comprehensive care plan emphasizing CPAP co-therapy. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if this medication suits your needs.
References
Malhotra, Atul, Ronald R. Grunstein, Ingo Fietze, Terri E. Weaver, Susan Redline, Ali Azarbarzin, Scott A. Sands, et al. “Tirzepatide for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Obesity.” The New England Journal of Medicine, June 21, 2024. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38912654/.
Office of the Commissioner. “FDA Approves Tirzepatide for Obstructive Sleep Apnea.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, December 20, 2024. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-tirzepatide-obstructive-sleep-apnea.
“Tirzepatide for Moderate to Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea.” Lilly Medical, accessed June 20, 2025. https://www.lillymedical.com/en-us/sleep-apnea/tirzepatide-osa.
“Tirzepatide Approved by FDA for Sleep Apnea Management.” American Academy of Sleep Medicine, January 10, 2025. https://aasm.org/tirzepatide-approved-fda-sleep-apnea-medication/.
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