Exploring New Treatments for Sleep Apnea: A Look at Recent Findings
Recent Developments in Sleep Apnea Treatment
Recent news in the field of sleep apnea indicates exciting potential. An established European epilepsy drug, sulthiame, may offer new hope for patients suffering from the condition. Early-stage clinical trials presented at the European Respiratory Society annual meeting in Vienna showed that patients taking sulthiame experienced a 40% to 50% reduction in sleep apnea events compared to those on a placebo.
Study Details and Findings
The study enlisted almost 300 individuals diagnosed with sleep apnea from various hospitals across several European countries. None of the participants were using CPAP machines or oral devices. The results indicated that the group treated with the highest dose of sulthiame reported significant improvements.
- Patients taking sulthiame displayed fewer breathing interruptions.
- They also recorded enhanced daytime alertness.
- Some experienced mild side effects including headache and nausea.
Researcher Jan Hedner from Sahlgrenska University Hospital highlighted the need for larger clinical trials to validate these promising outcomes.
Implications for Sleep Apnea Treatment
While sulthiame is primarily used for epilepsy in Europe, this research suggests a novel approach to treating obstructive sleep apnea. Experts emphasize the importance of further studies to examine its long-term effects and safety profile. More information on sleep apnea can be found through the National Institutes of Health.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.