💊 Existing drug shows effectiveness against sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea affects the quality of life of millions of people, but current solutions are not always well accepted. A recent clinical trial could change the game by proposing a drug treatment.

This study, conducted in several European countries, tested the efficacy of sulthiame, a drug initially used against a form of childhood epilepsy. Using this approach, researchers observed a significant reduction in breathing pauses among participants.


The trial involved 298 individuals suffering from moderate to severe apnea. Divided into groups receiving either a placebo or different doses of sulthiame, neither the patients nor the research teams knew who was taking the drug and who was taking the placebo, thus guaranteeing the reliability of the results.

The highest doses of sulthiame reduced breathing interruptions by up to 47% and improved oxygen levels. The drug works by stabilizing breathing regulation and increasing respiratory activity, which reduces the risk of airway collapse during sleep.

Jan Hedner, a professor of pulmonary medicine, indicated that these results represent a significant advance. The team now plans larger studies to confirm the long-term effect and safety of the treatment.

Currently, the standard treatment for sleep apnea is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), which is effective but often poorly tolerated. Nearly half of patients abandon this treatment due to the discomfort of the mask.

Sulthiame thus offers a promising alternative for those who cannot tolerate CPAP. Although mild side effects have been noted, they are generally temporary, paving the way for new treatment options.

Obstructive sleep apnea: mechanisms and impacts

Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder where the upper airways close partially or completely during sleep. This causes repeated breathing stops, often accompanied by loud snoring. The brain is then briefly awakened to restore breathing, which fragments sleep.

These frequent interruptions prevent restorative rest and lead to excessive daytime sleepiness. In the long term, repeated lack of oxygenation can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, such as high blood pressure or strokes.

Diagnosis often relies on sleep studies in a laboratory or at home. The severity is measured by the number of breathing events per hour, helping to tailor treatment according to individual needs.

Sulthiame: mode of action and applications

Sulthiame is a drug known for several decades for its use in treating certain forms of childhood epilepsy. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called carbonic anhydrase, which influences the acid-base balance in the body.

For sleep apnea, sulthiame appears to stimulate breathing by increasing the sensitivity of the brain's respiratory centers. This action helps maintain more regular breathing activity, thereby reducing the risk of airway closure during sleep.

The repurposing of existing drugs for new indications, as here, is a common strategy in medical research. It allows for the benefit of already evaluated safety and accelerates treatment development.