Key takeaways for Hawaii
- • Zepbound is the FIRST and ONLY FDA-approved drug for OSA (Dec 2024).
- • Approved only for moderate-to-severe OSA in adults with obesity.
- • AHI reductions of 25-30 events/hour in the SURMOUNT-OSA trials.
- • Med-QUEST coverage rules apply for Obstructive Sleep Apnea patients in Hawaii — see Medicaid section below.
- • 13 GLP-1 telehealth providers available nationwide.
Why GLP-1 medications for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Zepbound is FDA-approved (Dec 2024) for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. Evidence grade: A. In the SURMOUNT-OSA trials, tirzepatide reduced the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) by roughly 25-30 events per hour at 52 weeks, with a substantial fraction of patients reaching disease remission. CPAP remains standard of care — Zepbound is positioned as adjunct or alternative for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP. Other GLP-1s (Wegovy, semaglutide) are not approved for OSA but may produce indirect benefit via weight loss.
Hawaii-specific context
Hawaii has telehealth access concentrated in Honolulu, East Honolulu, Pearl City metros, with additional reach to Hilo and Kailua. Queen's Health Systems, Hawaii Pacific Health is the largest in-state academic medical center for endocrine + obesity-medicine specialty consults. The state health authority publishes prescribing + coverage updates at health.hawaii.gov.
Hawaiitelehealth & pricing rules
- • Hawaii requires a live video consultation before a GLP-1 prescription.
- • Hawaii allows new-patient telehealth prescribing without a prior in-person visit.
- • Typical cash GLP-1 price in Hawaii: ~$339/mo (compounded options often lower, brand higher).
State telehealth statutes change — verify current rules with your provider before booking.