The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday issued the first guidelines on the use of GLP-1 therapy to treat obesity, conditionally recommending it as part of the long-term treatment of a condition that affects more than a billion people worldwide.
The guidelines come at a time when global demand for GLP-1 agonists is growing, and authorities are trying to understand how to incorporate these successful therapies into public health systems.
The first conditional recommendation advises the use of GLP-1 drugs in adults, except pregnant women, for the long-term treatment of obesity. Another recommendation suggests combining these medications with a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted that the move “recognizes obesity as a chronic disease that requires comprehensive and lifelong care,” but warned that drugs alone will not solve the global health crisis.
Marie Spreckley from the University of Cambridge noted that the guidelines were “appropriately rated as conditional”, noting that there was still uncertainty around long-term use at higher doses, affordability and health system capacity.
WHO officials emphasized that access to therapy is the biggest challenge. Even with rapid production, GLP-1 therapies are predicted to reach less than 10% of those who could benefit by 2030.
“Our biggest concern is equitable access. Without coordinated action, these medicines could widen the gap between rich and poor, both between and within countries,” Tedros said.
The move follows a decision in September to add semaglutide and tirzepatide, the active ingredients in the drugs Ozempic (Novo Nordisk) and Mounjaro (Eli Lilly), to the list of key drugs to treat type 2 diabetes in at-risk groups, but not to treat obesity.
WHO officials emphasize the need for increased production, better availability and the creation of procurement mechanisms, such as joint procurement that has proven successful in major health programs such as HIV, to ensure equitable access to GLP-1 therapies.
The latest guidelines apply to adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, and three types of medication are recommended: semaglutide, tirsepatide, and an older drug in the same class, liraglutide.
In 2026, WHO will work with governments and stakeholders to prioritize access for those most in need, reports Report.
