Medications and investigational treatments for sleep apnea

Medication for a defined group of patients

Zepbound (tirzepatide) is FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. That indication does not apply to every weight-loss drug or every person with sleep apnea. Discuss eligibility, risks, and monitoring with a prescribing clinician. [1]

Investigational treatments

These research approaches target airway muscles, breathing control, or obesity. Their evidence and availability are evolving; they are separate from established treatment choices.

AD109: supporting airway muscle activity

This investigational combination of aroxybutynin and atomoxetine is designed to help maintain upper-airway muscle activity during sleep. Its application is under FDA review as of October 4, 2026. It has not yet been approved, so it is not currently an established treatment option. [2]

Retatrutide: studying weight-related improvements

Retatrutide is an investigational medicine being studied for obesity and related conditions, including obstructive sleep apnea. Phase 3 results have been reported in people with obesity and sleep apnea. It remains investigational and is different from tirzepatide (Zepbound), which already has an FDA-approved indication for certain adults with sleep apnea. [3]

Sulthiame: targeting breathing control

Also called sultiame, this medicine is being studied for its effects on breathing control during sleep. A phase 2 randomized trial reported improvements in sleep-apnea measures. Further research is needed to establish its role, longer-term safety, and which patients might benefit; it is not an approved treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. [4]

These developments may broaden future choices. Your current plan should still be based on available treatments and follow-up with your care team; participating in research is a separate discussion with a study clinician.

Common questions