Lilly’s Zepbound Shows Promise in Resolving Sleep Apnea in Obese Patients, Strengthening Case for Label Expansion

1. Phase III SURMOUNT-OSA Program Results: Zepbound (tirzepatide) significantly improved disease severity in patients with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea and obesity, reducing the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) by up to 62.8%.
2. Disease Resolution: Tirzepatide treatment led to high rates of disease resolution, with 43% of patients in SURMOUNT-OSA 1 and 51.5% in SURMOUNT-OSA 2 achieving resolution, compared to 14.9% and 13.6% in the placebo groups, respectively.
3. Safety Profile: The adverse event profile of tirzepatide was consistent with prior trials, with gastrointestinal side effects being the most common and generally mild or moderate in severity.
4. Label Expansion: Lilly has filed for a label expansion with the FDA, with a verdict expected by the end of 2024.
5. Potential Impact: The OSA indication could help secure Medicare coverage for Zepbound, giving millions of older adults access to the anti-obesity medication.