The US FDA approved Eli Lilly's Zepbound as the first ever medication for obstructive sleep apnea for patients who also have obesity

The Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved Eli Lilly’s weight-loss drug Zepbound to treat sleep apnea, a common but potentially serious sleep-related breathing disorder, marking the first medication for certain patients with the condition.

GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro have helped millions of Americans lose weight and better manage their type 2 diabetes. Now, new research suggests Eli Lilly's weight loss drug Zepbound (tirzepetide) may also support those with obstructive sleep apnea by increasing airflow and improving sleep quality.

FDA stated that Zepbound, part of the GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines that include Ozempic, was cleared to treat moderate to severe OSA in individuals with obesity. According to drugmaker Eli Lilly,

ABC News' Dr. Darien Sutton breaks down the FDA’s approval of the popular weight loss medication for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity.

The FDA has granted approval for its first medication for certain patients with sleep apnea—the weight-loss drug Zepbound. The decision could lead to expanded insurance coverage of the medication, CNBC reports;