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Review
. 2025 May 23;14(1):48.
doi: 10.1007/s13679-025-00640-0.

Bariatric Surgery and GLP-1/GIP Medications for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: A Comprehensive Review

Amr Alnagar  1 , Yashashwi Sinha  2 , Adil N Ahmad  2 , Awais Ahmed  3 , Mohamed Saleem Noormohamed  2
Affiliations
Review

Bariatric Surgery and GLP-1/GIP Medications for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: A Comprehensive Review

Amr Alnagar et al. Curr Obes Rep. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review evaluates the comparative efficacy of bariatric surgery and pharmacological interventions targeting Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) and Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide (GIP) receptors. Recent advancements, including the FDA approval of Tirzepatide (Zepbound) for OSA, are critically analysed alongside existing literature, offering insights into physiological mechanisms, long-term outcomes, and patient selection criteria.

Recent findings: OSA is a chronic condition characterized by repetitive upper airway collapse during sleep, resulting in intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation. With obesity being a primary risk factor, weight management has emerged as a key intervention in OSA treatment. Direct comparisons of bariatric surgery and GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists in treating OSA are limited due to a lack of randomised controlled trials. Observational studies suggest that bariatric surgery typically results in faster and more sustained weight loss, leading to better initial OSA improvement. In contrast, pharmacotherapy offers a non-invasive option for patients who cannot undergo surgery. Randomized trials comparing these treatment modalities are essential to refine treatment algorithms and enhance patient care. A multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach is crucial for ensuring long-term success and improving the quality of life for individuals with obesity-related OSA.

Keywords: Airway; Apnoea-hypopnea index; Bariatric; Obesity; Sleep; Weight loss.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declarations. Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests.

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