WHO outlines first-ever global recommendations for GLP-1 medicines in obesity care, stressing long-term use and behavioural support
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The World Health Organization has released its first global guideline on the use of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) therapies for treating obesity, recognising the condition as a chronic and relapsing disease. The move comes amid rising global demand for GLP-1 medications—such as semaglutide and liraglutide—currently used for diabetes and weight management. Here’s what the new guidance means and why it matters.
What are GLP-1 therapies?
GLP-1 therapies (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are medications that mimic the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone, which regulates blood sugar and appetite. Originally developed to manage type-2 diabetes, these drugs are now widely used for weight loss and obesity treatment.
Beyond weight management, some GLP-1 medicines have shown additional benefits, including lowering the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure, and reducing the incidence of type-2 diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease.
When should GLP-1 therapy be considered?
The WHO stresses that GLP-1 drugs are not suitable for everyone and must only be prescribed by qualified medical practitioners. According to the new guideline, these medicines may be considered for adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) as part of long-term treatment.
Importantly, the guideline excludes pregnant women, as GLP-1 therapies have not been clinically tested in this group. Individual health history, comorbidities, and clinical indicators must also be carefully assessed before starting treatment.
How do GLP-1 medicines work?
GLP-1 therapies help regulate blood glucose by triggering insulin release when sugar levels are high and suppressing glucagon production. They also slow digestion and increase satiety, which naturally reduces food intake and supports weight loss.
Medication alone won’t solve the obesity challenge
The WHO emphasises that obesity is complex and cannot be addressed by medication alone. Social, economic, and environmental factors all play a role, making a combined approach essential.
Key takeaways from the WHO guideline
The newly released guideline includes two major conditional recommendations:
GLP-1 therapies may be used for long-term obesity treatment in adults (excluding pregnant women).
While there is strong evidence that these drugs effectively support weight loss and improve metabolic outcomes, the recommendation remains conditional due to:
Limited long-term safety and efficacy data
High costs of treatment
Uncertainty around long-term maintenance and discontinuation
Health system limitations
Potential equity concerns in access and affordability
Intensive behavioural interventions may be offered alongside GLP-1 therapies.
WHO notes that structured programmes, including healthy diet guidance and physical activity plans, may improve treatment outcomes. This recommendation is based on low-certainty evidence but supports a more holistic approach.
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