CPAP MASK

There are limited benefits involved with treating sleep apnea or snoring with only medications.  They are most useful for treating mild sleep apnea or for use in your overall treatment plan.

NASAL SPRAYS

If you use an over the counter nasal spray to clear your nasal passages, limit their use to only a few days.  These sprays can be habit forming.

Prescription anti allergy nasal sprays may help improve sleep apnea by opening up the nasal passages.  It will take several days for these sprays to be effective.  They will not work in clearing nasal blockage if it is caused by a deviated septum or other physical abnormality.

DECONGESTANTS

These types of oral medicines can definitely help to relieve nasal congestion, but are not sufficient for the treatment of sleep apnea.  In addition, they can cause insomnia.

OXYGEN

Receiving oxygen therapy at night will help your oxygen levels to stay at an acceptable level.  It will not, however, prevent sleep apnea.  Oxygen can be used in combination with a CPAP or BIPAP machine.

ALERTNESS PROMOTING MEDICATIONS

Sometimes people who have OSA remain sleepy during the day even when their CPAP or BIPAP therapy is considered successful.  If there is not another cause for the sleepiness, a medication called Modafinil may be prescribed to help improve alertness.  Modafinil stimulates the brain to help you stay awake.  It can cause a mild increase in blood pressure so it is vital to monitor blood pressures closely if taking this medicine.

Using medications as part of your treatment plan for sleep apnea will require close follow up by your sleep specialist.  It is important to have regular follow up appointments with your sleep doctor.

Sleep apnea can become either more severe or it may even become milder as you age.  A change in your weight can also affect your sleep apnea.  Ongoing follow up will help you to have continued success in treating your sleep apnea.