In this episode, TRC Healthcare editor, Sara Klockars, PharmD, BCPS unpacks the newly approved use of tirzepatide (Zepbound) for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—a first-in-class pharmacologic option for a condition long managed with devices and lifestyle changes.

You’ll hear a concise review of sleep apnea pathophysiology, how tirzepatide works to reduce airway obstruction, and what the latest clinical trials reveal about its efficacy and safety. Plus, you’ll get practical pharmacy-focused insights on side effect management, payer considerations, and how to avoid duplicate GLP-1 therapy.

This is an excerpt from our April 2025 Pharmacy Essential Updates continuing education webinar series.

The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to Pharmacist’s Letter, Pharmacy Technician’s Letter, and Prescriber Insights:

• Article: Watch for Tirzepatide for Sleep Apnea
• Chart: GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Interactive Comparison Chart

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🎓 Are you a student? Great news—students can access a free version of Pharmacist’s Letter.

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GLP-1 Essentials from TRC Healthcare – Now Available

Master the essentials of GLP-1 therapy with this focused GLP-1 agonists CE bundle. Get 4 hours of CE plus clinical tools to help you prescribe, titrate, switch therapies, and support patients confidently.

Courses include:

• GLP-1 Agonists: Understanding the Essentials (1.5 hours)
• GLP-1 Agonists: Supporting Success with Nutrition and Lifestyle Considerations (1 hour)
• GLP-1 Agonists: Optimizing Therapy Across Clinical Scenarios (1.5 hours)
• GLP-1 Agonists: Pipeline and Emerging Therapies (no CE credit; regular updates planned)

Now included with Pharmacist’s Letter Platinum and Diamond subscriptions, or available as a standalone CE experience.

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Join the National Community Pharmacists Associations’ Annual Convention (NCPA) in New Orleans October 18-21st: https://bit.ly/ncpameeting25

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