This protocol applies to central sleep apnoea (CSA) that arises from use of an offending medication or substance — including opioids, baclofen, gabapentinoids, and ticagrelor. Medication-induced CSA is sometimes misclassified as primary CSA, making correct recognition an essential first step: identifying the causative agent directly determines the management path.
Management centres on addressing the offending agent. The approach may involve cessation, dose modification, or substitution with an appropriate alternative — the specific strategy depends on which medication is responsible. Additional pharmacological switching options exist for certain causative agents.
Reversal of central sleep apnoea.
DOI: 10.1183/20734735.0235-2023
Recognition of medication-induced CSA, which is sometimes misclassified as primary CSA, is an important first step in its management, as withdrawal of the offending medication will reverse the disorder.
Treatment involves cessation of the offending drug and switching to an alternative (i.e. an alternative anti-platelet or anti-epileptic drug).
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