Last week, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia approved Mounjaro, a weight-loss drug, for treating sleep apnoea. This condition involves interruptions in breathing during sleep. Mounjaro is now authorized for use in adults with obesity and moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration approved Mounjaro for the same purpose last year. This drug, primarily used for weight management and treating type 2 diabetes, has shown promise in helping individuals with sleep apnoea.
Understanding Sleep Apnoea
Sleep apnoea is a prevalent sleep disorder affecting nearly 1 billion people globally. It is characterized by repeated airway closures during sleep, leading to shallow breathing or complete pauses in breathing. This condition not only disrupts sleep but also impacts oxygen flow to the body, straining the heart and increasing the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke.
Obesity is a significant risk factor for obstructive sleep apnoea, with around 80% of affected individuals living with obesity. The relationship between obesity and sleep apnoea is bidirectional, with obesity increasing the chances of developing sleep apnoea and vice versa. Excess weight can lead to fat accumulation around the neck, narrowing the airway and affecting breathing during sleep.
Role of Weight Loss in Treating Sleep Apnoea
Weight loss plays a crucial role in managing sleep apnoea by reducing symptoms' severity and lowering the risk of associated health problems. However, achieving and maintaining weight loss through lifestyle changes can be challenging. The first-line therapy for moderate to severe sleep apnoea is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, which helps keep the airway open during sleep.
Despite its effectiveness, some individuals find CPAP machines uncomfortable or difficult to use regularly. This highlights the need for new strategies to prevent and manage sleep apnoea, given its significant impact on health and well-being.
Understanding Mounjaro and Its Benefits
Mounjaro, also known as tirzepatide, works by mimicking two gut hormone receptors - glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). By replicating the effects of these hormones, tirzepatide helps individuals feel fuller with smaller meals, leading to weight loss.
In a study involving 469 people with obesity and moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea, tirzepatide treatment for a year resulted in a significant reduction in sleep apnoea severity compared to a placebo. Additionally, this drug has shown improvements in various health indicators like reduced inflammation, enhanced insulin sensitivity, and lower blood pressure.
Side Effects and Considerations
While Mounjaro can be beneficial for individuals with sleep apnoea, gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common. Some patients have also reported gallbladder issues. It is essential to note that Mounjaro is intended for use in obese patients, and not all individuals with sleep apnoea are overweight.
For patients who do not fall under the obese category, alternative treatments like mandibular advancement devices or upper airway surgery may be necessary. Mounjaro is administered through weekly injections and is currently not subsidized under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme in Australia.
The approval of Mounjaro for sleep apnoea treatment offers hope for many individuals. However, more research is needed to determine its widespread impact on sleep apnoea care in Australia.
Source: The Conversation
