Central Sleep Apnea: Treatment & Medication - Diabetes and Sleep Apnea Drugs and Medications

Central Sleep Apnea: Treatment & Medication
Apr 4, 2008
Rahul K Kakkar,

Due to the heterogeneity of the central sleep apnea syndromes, different medications have been used under different circumstances. No one medication can be considered as a drug of choice.
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor

To induce metabolic acidosis and increase baseline ventilation.

Acetazolamide (Diamox)

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitor for acclimatization to altitude in HACE and AMS. Helps prevent AMS in forced rapid ascent or in patients with history of repeated AMS. Improves symptomatic periodic breathing and hypoxia experienced at high altitudes. Not indicated for general prophylaxis of AMS. Treatment of AMS may be discontinued when patient is asymptomatic.

Dosing
Interactions
Contraindications
Precautions

Dosing

Adult

IR: 250 mg PO q8-12h
ER: 500 mg cap PO q12-24h
Pediatric

5 mg/kg/d PO or 150 mg/m2 PO qd

Benzodiazepines

To promote deeper stages of sleep.

Temazepam (Restoril)

Intermediate rate of absorption and duration of action make this drug useful for treating initial and middle insomnia. Has no active metabolites, which reduce cognitive impairment and grogginess the following day.
Adult

15-30 mg PO qhs
Pediatric

Not established

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