Epilepsy drug sulthiame could reduce sleep apnea events

A phase 2 European trial reported that sulthiame reduced nighttime breathing interruptions and improved overnight oxygen in adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea.

A European phase 2 trial found that the epilepsy drug sulthiame reduced breathing interruptions and improved overnight oxygen in adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. The study was randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled and enrolled 298 participants across four European countries. Higher doses produced larger reductions in apnea events, and most reported side effects were described as mild and temporary. Key findings: - The phase 2 trial included 298 adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea across four European countries. - The study was randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled. - Higher doses of sulthiame reduced nighttime breathing interruptions by up to 47% versus placebo and improved overnight oxygen levels. - Earlier data presented at conferences showed about an 18% reduction at lower doses and nearly 50% at higher doses, with reported improvements in daytime sleepiness in some participants. - Sulthiame has been used to treat childhood epilepsy in some countries and remains investigational for sleep apnea in the United States and Canada. Summary: The trial indicates sulthiame can pharmacologically influence measures of obstructive sleep apnea and overnight oxygenation in the short term. Researchers plan larger and longer phase 3 studies to assess durability, safety and which patient groups may benefit most.