A breakthrough has occurred in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity, as the FDA has given the green light to Zepbound, a weight loss medication developed by Eli Lilly & Co. This marks the first time a prescription drug has been specifically approved for this purpose. The FDA recommends combining Zepbound with a low-calorie diet and increased physical activity for optimal results. Obstructive sleep apnea, a condition characterized by airway blockage leading to breathing difficulties during sleep, is more commonly observed in overweight individuals. Research shows Zepbound’s potential in reducing sleep apnea symptoms by promoting weight loss. Studies on adults with obesity and moderate to severe sleep apnea demonstrated significant improvement in breathing complications for those taking Zepbound compared to a placebo group, with benefits seen in both CPAP machine users and non-users. FDA officials view this approval as a significant advancement for sleep apnea patients. The importance of weight management in controlling sleep apnea has long been emphasized by medical experts. The expanding potential of weight loss medications in addressing various health issues, including addiction and cancer, is being explored by researchers. Zepbound, also known as tirzepatide, was initially approved in November 2023 for weight loss, posing a challenge to Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy. In March, the FDA granted approval for Wegovy to reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular problems in overweight patients.