The FDA has approved Zepbound® (tirzepatide) as the first-ever medication to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults who are obese. This is a major breakthrough for the millions of people suffering from sleep apnea, a condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing breathing to stop and start. Zepbound, developed by Eli Lilly, works by promoting weight loss, which can help reduce the severity of sleep apnea symptoms.
While Zepbound offers new hope for many, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. The drug comes with significant safety concerns and side effects that patients need to carefully consider before deciding if it’s right for them. Here's what you should know about Zepbound, its benefits, and its risks.
How Zepbound Works: A Game-Changer for Weight Loss and Sleep Apnea
Zepbound belongs to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists—similar to weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. It works by activating two hormones in the body (GLP-1 and GIP), which help reduce appetite and food intake. As patients lose weight, studies show that Zepbound can improve sleep apnea symptoms by reducing the number of times the airway becomes blocked during sleep.
However, for the best results, Zepbound needs to be paired with a healthy, reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity.
Who Should Consider Zepbound?
Zepbound is specifically approved for adults with obesity who suffer from moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. But while the drug holds promise, it is not suitable for everyone. If you have certain health conditions, you may need to avoid this treatment or at least discuss other options with your doctor.
Serious Risks and Side Effects You Should Know About
While Zepbound can help with weight loss and improve sleep apnea symptoms, it comes with some serious safety warnings. Here’s what you need to be aware of:
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Risk of Thyroid Cancer: Zepbound has been linked to an increased risk of thyroid tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), a rare but dangerous form of thyroid cancer. If you have a family history of MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2), Zepbound is not safe for you. Symptoms to watch out for include a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath. If you notice any of these signs, stop the medication and consult your doctor immediately.
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Digestive Problems: Zepbound can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, which may range from mild to severe. These digestive issues can be uncomfortable and might require medical attention if they don't go away.
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Kidney Concerns: Zepbound may lead to kidney problems, especially if you become dehydrated from vomiting or diarrhea. Dehydration can increase the risk of kidney failure. It’s important to stay hydrated while using Zepbound to minimize this risk.
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Pancreatitis: Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, is another serious risk. Symptoms include severe stomach pain that may spread to your back. If you experience this, stop using Zepbound and seek medical help immediately.
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Gallbladder Problems: Zepbound may also cause gallbladder issues, such as pain in the upper abdomen, fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or clay-colored stools. If any of these symptoms occur, you should consult your healthcare provider right away.
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Allergic Reactions: Some patients may have serious allergic reactions to Zepbound, including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe. If this happens, you should seek emergency medical care.
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Low Blood Sugar: If you are already on medications for diabetes, like insulin or sulfonylureas, Zepbound can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Be alert for symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, confusion, or shakiness, and talk to your doctor about how to manage low blood sugar while using this medication.
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Mental Health Risks: There are also concerns about depression or thoughts of suicide while using Zepbound. If you notice changes in your mood, behaviors, or thoughts, it’s important to talk to your doctor right away.
Less Serious, But Common Side Effects
While some side effects are more severe, others are more common but generally less concerning. These include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Stomach pain or indigestion
- Fatigue or feeling tired
- Injection site reactions (like redness or swelling)
- Hair loss and heartburn
Most of these side effects are temporary and improve over time, but if they are persistent or bothersome, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider.
Who Should Not Take Zepbound?
Zepbound may not be suitable for everyone. People with the following conditions should avoid the drug:
- A history of thyroid cancer or MTC
- Pancreatitis or other pancreatic issues
- Severe kidney or gallbladder problems
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding (Zepbound can harm your unborn baby, and it’s not known whether it passes into breast milk)
Additionally, if you take insulin or sulfonylureas for diabetes, your risk of low blood sugar may increase with Zepbound, so your doctor may need to adjust your medication.
Important Considerations Before Starting Zepbound
Before beginning treatment with Zepbound, you should have a conversation with your healthcare provider about the following:
- Diabetes management: Zepbound may affect your blood sugar levels, so you’ll need to monitor them carefully if you’re also taking diabetes medications.
- Surgery or anesthesia: If you are scheduled for surgery, Zepbound may increase the risk of food entering your lungs during procedures involving anesthesia. Be sure to tell your doctor.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial to avoid dehydration, which can lead to kidney problems or other complications.
Is Zepbound Right for You?
Zepbound offers an exciting new option for treating obstructive sleep apnea in people with obesity, particularly those who have struggled with traditional treatments like CPAP machines. However, it’s not without its risks. If you have pre-existing health conditions or are concerned about the side effects, you should have an in-depth discussion with your doctor to determine if Zepbound is a safe and effective treatment for you.
It’s important to understand that while Zepbound can aid in weight loss and improve sleep apnea symptoms, it’s not a quick fix. The drug must be combined with healthy eating and regular exercise to achieve the best results.
Ultimately, making an informed decision about whether to use Zepbound should involve weighing the potential benefits against the risks and consulting with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
