Translated with AI
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first-ever recommendations for the use of a new class of weight-loss medications. The document also recognizes obesity as a chronic disease. This decision could impact national policies, insurance coverage, and clinical guidelines, especially amid the rapidly growing demand for effective weight-loss treatments, the UN press service reported.
The guidelines cover glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists—drugs such as liraglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide—and provide recommendations for their safe use as part of combination therapy. However, the recommendations remain conditional due to limited long-term safety data, uncertainty regarding weight maintenance after treatment discontinuation, high cost, and risks of inequalities in access across countries.
Obesity is a chronic disease According to the WHO, over one billion people worldwide are obese. In 2024, it was a factor in 3.7 million deaths. Without decisive action, the number of obese people could double by 2030, placing a colossal burden on healthcare systems and leading to global economic losses of up to $3 trillion per year.
"Obesity is a major global challenge," said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. "The new guidelines recognize obesity as a chronic disease that requires a comprehensive, life-long approach. Medication alone won't solve the crisis, but GLP-1 therapy can help millions of people."
The WHO emphasizes that obesity is not simply a consequence of individual lifestyle choices. It is a complex, chronic condition influenced by genetic factors, biological processes, environment, and social conditions.
Consequences of excess weight Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and several types of cancer, and it also worsens the course of many infectious diseases. For most people, losing weight and maintaining it without medical support is extremely difficult.
GLP-1 medications mimic the action of a natural hormone involved in regulating appetite, blood sugar levels, and digestion. In obese individuals, these medications can lead to significant weight loss and improved health.
WHO has included these drugs in the 2025 List of Essential Medicines for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in high-risk groups, and new guidelines allow their long-term use in obese adults, with the exception of pregnancy.
An integrated approach The WHO emphasizes that drug therapy alone cannot be the only answer to the problem of obesity. The most effective approach involves combining medication with a healthier diet, regular physical activity, and long-term monitoring and support from specialists.
The organization reiterates that the obesity epidemic cannot be addressed by patients alone; systemic measures from governments and industry are needed.
Access, security and counterfeit risk Demand for GLP-1 drugs already significantly exceeds supply. Even with increased production, the WHO estimates that by 2030, less than 10 percent of those prescribed these medications will have access.
Without sound public policy, existing inequalities in healthcare could worsen. WHO recommends that countries utilize pooled purchasing, fair pricing, and voluntary licensing mechanisms.
The WHO also warns of the growing circulation of counterfeit and substandard GLP-1 drugs as a result of the global shortage. The organization calls for strict supply chain regulation, prudent prescribing, and enhanced quality control.
The guidelines were developed at the request of WHO Member States and are based on scientific evidence, expert opinions, and consultations with people living with obesity. The UN agency plans to update the recommendations as new data becomes available and, by 2026, work with partners to ensure access to GLP-1 therapy for those who need it most.
