par Business AM
published on Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 7:15 p.m. •
2 min read
Main information
- The epilepsy drug sulthiame has been shown to reduce breathing interruptions by up to 50 percent and improve oxygen saturation levels during sleep.
- Sleep apnea is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, leading to snoring, gasping, and poor sleep quality.
- Other possible treatments for sleep apnea include nasal CPAP therapy, oral appliances, and weight loss.
A potential new treatment for obstructive sleep apnea has emerged as an epilepsy drug showed promising results in clinical trials. Sulthiame, sold under the brand name Ospolot, was found to significantly reduce the frequency of breathing interruptions and improve oxygen saturation levels during sleep in a study of 298 patients.
Sleep apnea is characterized by temporary stops in breathing during sleep, leading to snoring, gasping, and poor sleep quality. Symptoms also include morning headaches and daytime sleepiness. Although snoring is often associated with sleep apnea, it is important to note that the two conditions are not the same.
Treatment options
The study found that patients receiving the highest doses of Sulthiame experienced up to a 50 percent reduction in breathing interruptions and an increase in blood oxygen levels during sleep.
Among the others treatments Possible treatments for sleep apnea include nasal CPAP therapy, oral appliances, nasal sprays, antihistamines, weight loss, and reducing alcohol consumption. Surgical options such as minimally invasive radiofrequency surgery, tonsillectomy, and laser or robotic surgery are also available for suitable patients.
