If you have sleep apnea, you already know how frustrating and exhausting it can be. Loud snoring, waking up gasping for air, feeling foggy all day, it’s enough to make anyone desperate for solutions. And lately, a surprising new player has entered the conversation: Weight loss medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro.

You’ve probably seen ads or heard about people shedding serious kilos thanks to these new medications. But can they actually help with sleep apnea too? Let’s dive into it!

First Things First: What Is Sleep Apnea, and Why Does Weight Matter?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) happens when your airway collapses or becomes blocked during sleep, causing breathing pauses that can last from a few seconds to even a minute or longer. Not only does it wreck your sleep quality, but it can also increase your risk for serious health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, and even strokes.

One of the biggest risk factors for OSA? Weight.

Excess fat, especially around the neck and upper airway, can put pressure on your throat muscles, making them more likely to collapse when you relax into sleep. Studies have shown that even a modest weight loss (about 10% of your body weight) can dramatically improve sleep apnea symptoms.

That’s where Ozempic and friends come in.

What Is Ozempic, and How Does It Work?

Originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes, Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) belong to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists (Mounjaro also targets a second hormone, GIP). These medications help regulate blood sugar, but they’re also known for their ability to reduce appetite, slow digestion, and promote significant weight loss.

Because it works so well for shedding weight, many people who don’t have diabetes are now using these drugs specifically for weight management under medical supervision.

And when people lose weight? Their sleep apnea symptoms often get better.

So, Can Ozempic Help Sleep Apnea?

The short answer? Potentially, yes. But it’s important to understand that it is not a direct treatment for sleep apnea.

Medications like Ozempic support weight loss, which can positively affect sleep apnea symptoms. By reducing fat around the airway, airflow improves during sleep and breathing interruptions become less frequent. Some people have even seen their sleep apnea shift from moderate or severe to mild, or resolve completely.

These medications do not cure sleep apnea, but they help by addressing a major underlying cause: excess weight. As body weight decreases, particularly around the neck and throat, pressure on the airway is reduced, allowing for easier breathing during sleep.

The results take time. Relief is not immediate, but as the weight gradually comes off, many users report:

• Fewer breathing disruptions at night

• Better quality sleep

• Less daytime sleepiness

• Increased energy and improved overall wellbeing

A recent study found that people who lost significant weight using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic experienced better sleep, reduced fatigue during the day, and higher energy levels.

Even more exciting is the news that Mounjaro, another GLP-1 medication, has now been TGA approved in Australia. This is the first time a medication has been approved specifically to treat sleep apnea without the use of a CPAP machine.

According to Dr. Alex Bartle, a sleep expert from the University of the Sunshine Coast, this is a significant step forward. Many people struggle with CPAP therapy, and Mounjaro offers a non-invasive option that addresses the condition’s root cause for many individuals: excess body weight.

In clinical trials, Mounjaro users saw a 50 to 60 percent reduction in the number of sleep apnea episodes per hour. For some, this meant moving from severe OSA to mild or even resolving their symptoms entirely.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the connection between weight loss and better sleep apnea outcomes is exciting, it’s not all smooth sailing. Here are a few important things to know:

1.       You Still Need Your CPAP (For Now)

Even if you're starting to lose weight, it's crucial to keep using your CPAP machine or other prescribed therapy until your doctor tells you otherwise. Sleep apnea doesn't disappear overnight. Skipping treatment too soon can put you at risk of serious health issues.

2.       Weight Loss Plateaus Happen

Weight loss isn't always a straight line. It's completely normal for it to plateau, especially after the first few months. Stick with your treatment plan and talk to your healthcare team if you're feeling stuck.

3.       Medication Side Effects Are Real

Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications can come with a range of side effects, particularly when you first begin treatment or increase your dose. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. For many people, these symptoms improve over time, but for others, they may persist.

There is also a small risk of more serious complications such as pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or thyroid problems, though these are rare. Because of this, not everyone will be a suitable candidate for these medications. It is important to have a detailed discussion with your doctor before starting, so they can determine if the treatment is appropriate for you and monitor your response.

Additionally, some reports suggest that weight loss from GLP-1 medications may include loss of muscle mass and bone density, which could be permanent. This raises concerns about potential long-term risks, including conditions like osteopenia or osteoporosis. Always consult your healthcare provider and follow their guidance closely.

 Lifestyle Still Matters

Medication can help a lot, but lifestyle changes like eating healthy, moving your body, and getting good sleep hygiene are still key. Think of the medication as a tool, not the whole toolbox.

What About People Who Don’t Need to Lose Weight?

Not all sleep apnea sufferers are overweight. Many thin, otherwise totally fit and healthy people suffer from OSA too, often because of anatomical reasons (like a narrow airway). For these individuals, Ozempic and similar drugs won’t help with their sleep apnea as weight isn't the root cause.

That’s why it’s so important to work with sleep specialists who can figure out what’s really going on and recommend the best treatment for you.

The Bottom Line

With the TGA’s approval of Mounjaro as a treatment for sleep apnea, we’re entering a new era in sleep medicine—one where some patients may have a non-CPAP option for managing their condition.

For those with obesity-related OSA, medications like Mounjaro offer real hope—not just for better sleep, but for better health overall. But they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. They work best as part of a comprehensive plan that may include CPAP, lifestyle changes, and support from your healthcare team.

Curious if weight loss medication could be part of your sleep apnea journey? Talk to your doctor or sleep clinic. A better night’s sleep—and a healthier life—might be closer than you think.