TREATMENT OF SLEEP APNEA WITH GLP-1 RECEPTOR AGONISTS AND THEIR EFFECTS ON THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM: A LITERATURE REVIEW (Atena Editora)

Abstract

Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a disorder characterized by episodes of obstructive apneas, hypopneas and/or awakenings, usually caused by upper airway collapse related to respiratory effort. It is common in older men, post-menopausal women and children. Body mass index, obesity and increased abdominal and neck circumference are among the risk factors. The symptoms are daytime sleepiness, wheezing, choking, snoring or interruptions in breathing during sleep. The neurological damage caused by hypoxia includes a high risk of neurovascular complications, structural and metabolic damage. Objective: To analyze the impact of OSA on the central nervous system using drugs analogous to GLP-1 receptors. Methodology: A systematic literature review was carried out by searching for studies in the UpToDate, PubMed, Science Direct and Cochrane databases. Thirteen relevant articles were selected that address both the impacts of OSA and its therapeutic approaches. Results: The pharmacological approach with GLP-1 analogs, such as Liraglutide, has shown promise in the management of OSA, especially in patients with obesity, due to its action in reducing appetite, glycemic control and decreasing body weight. Other drugs such as Tirzepatida have also shown significant benefits, reducing the apnea-hypopnea index and improving cardiometabolic aspects in patients with OSA. Conclusion: The results indicate that drugs analogous to GLP-1 receptors have promising therapeutic potential for the treatment of OSA. However, there is a need for further studies that consider broader variables and different risk profiles. It is also essential to investigate long-term effects, response at different doses and possible interactions with other therapies, in order to better understand the applicability and safety of these drugs in a more diverse spectrum of patients.