Hopes epilepsy drug can help reduce symptoms of sleep apnoea
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In a recent global clinical study, Sulthiame seemed to lessen the symptoms associated with obstructive sleep apnea.
It has been suggested that a medication used for epilepsy may assist individuals who suffer from a common respiratory issue that leads to loud snoring and gasping during sleep.
In a recent global clinical trial involving 298 participants, Sulthiame, which is marketed as Ospolot, showed promise in alleviating symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea.
The main author, Jan Hedner, a professor of respiratory medicine at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden, discovered that patients receiving the highest doses of the medication showed better results.
Bhik Kotecha, a consultant ENT surgeon at Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital in Essex, mentioned that making adjustments to one's lifestyle, like losing weight and cutting down on alcohol consumption, can also be beneficial for managing sleep apnea.
Professor Kotecha explained that sleep apnoea is a disorder where a person intermittently stops breathing while they are asleep, and this happens multiple times.
He mentioned that the primary signs of sleep apnea are snoring, restless and disrupted sleep, occasional episodes of gasping for air, headaches upon waking, and feeling excessively sleepy during the day.
After 12 weeks, Ms. Hedner discovered that individuals using Sulthiame experienced up to 50% fewer instances of breathing interruptions and had increased oxygen levels in their blood while sleeping.
Many people mistakenly believe that snoring and sleep apnea refer to the same condition.
What Causes Snoring? Find Out Now!
"Snoring happens when airflow becomes irregular, and it can impact people of all ages, including kids and adults," said Mr. Kotecha.
"If the airway is repeatedly blocked, the patient might experience sleep apnea."
Kids frequently snore because their tonsils and adenoids may be larger than usual.
Mr. Kotecha stated, "Numerous studies show that getting rid of tonsils and adenoids in these kids significantly enhances their sleep quality and brain function."
In adults, the issue might stem from a blockage in the nasal passages caused by a crooked nasal septum or the presence of nasal polyps.
"Often, the main issue is the loose, excess soft palate at the back of the throat."
However, since most symptoms occur during sleep, it can be difficult to identify them.
Ways To Treat It Effectively
Mr. Kotecha mentioned that while more research is needed to understand the impact of Sulthiame, there are alternative methods available to manage the condition.
The choices available consisted of nasal CPAP (which delivers continuous positive airway pressure), oral devices, nasal sprays, antihistamines, and various lifestyle adjustments such as losing weight and cutting back on alcohol consumption.
Certain patients may also be candidates for procedures like minimally invasive radiofrequency surgery, tonsil removal, or laser and robotic surgeries.
Mr. Kotecha noted that minimally invasive radiofrequency surgery can enhance the upper airway by making the soft palate shorter and firmer, decreasing the size of the tongue, and improving the airflow through the nasal passages.
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