Gülşah ETHEMOĞLU
Acta Medica Ruha - 2026;4(2):50-61
Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent sleep-related breathing disorder closely associated with obesity and cardiometabolic dysfunction. Recent advances in incretin-based therapies, particularly tirzepatide, have generated increasing interest in metabolically targeted approaches for OSA management. Objective: This study aimed to comprehensively map and analyze global research trends on tirzepatide in OSA, with a focus on publication output, citation patterns, geographic and institutional contributions, collaboration networks, and thematic structures. Methods: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Web of Science (WoS; Clarivate Analytics) database. The literature was searched from 2022, corresponding to the initial clinical introduction of tirzepatide, through September 18, 2025. Bibliometric indicators were evaluated using performance analysis, network analysis, and multiple correspondence analysis to assess research productivity, citation dynamics, international collaboration, and conceptual structures. Results: A total of 39 publications with a total of 363 citations were identified, with a marked increase in publication output and citation activity after 2023. The United States and Australia were the leading contributors, and scientific production was concentrated among a limited number of authors and institutions. Keyword co-occurrence analysis revealed three principal thematic clusters: pharmacological, cardiometabolic, and respiratory domains. Citation analysis demonstrated that a small number of high-impact clinical trials accounted for the majority of citations, whereas many recent publications had not yet accumulated citations, reflecting the emerging nature of the field. Conclusion: This study maps global research on tirzepatide in OSA, demonstrating increasing integration of cardiometabolic and respiratory research and providing a framework for future clinical research and interdisciplinary collaboration.
