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Evaluating the potential of metabolic drugs in obstructive sleep apnea and obesity: a narrative review

Sevencan B, Steenackers N, van Laar ADE, Pazmiño Lucio S, Buyse B, Kalkanis A, Testelmans D, Van der Schueren B

Journal of clinical sleep medicine : JCSM : official publication of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2025

8 citations

Abstract

Study objectives: To assess the effectiveness of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, and dual gastric inhibitory polypeptide/GLP-1 receptor agonists in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed across multiple medical databases, including Embase, Medline, and Cochrane to look for English articles on interventions with SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1, and dual gastric inhibitory polypeptide/GLP-1 receptor agonists in people living with sleep apnea and overweight or obesity.

Results: Emerging evidence indicates that SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1, and dual gastric inhibitory polypeptide/GLP-1 receptor agonists are beneficial for treating obesity in combination with sleep apnea. Although these medications have shown promise in weight reduction, with GLP-1 receptor agonists slightly outperforming SGLT2 inhibitors, their effect on sleep apnea extends beyond mere weight loss. Preliminary studies suggest a beneficial role in obstructive sleep apnea management with reductions in the apnea-hypopnea index and potential improvements in other sleep-related outcomes.

Conclusions: There is a need for more therapeutic options to treat sleep apnea as adherence with current treatment options remains a struggle for many patients. According to preliminary research, SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1 and dual gastric inhibitory polypeptide/GLP-1 receptor agonists are promising candidates because…

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