WHO Issues Guidance on GLP-1 Medications for Obesity, Hailing Them as a "Scientific Advance" and "New Era"

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidelines recommending the use of GLP-1 drugs for treating obesity. These new guidelines from the United Nations health agency provide two key recommendations. Firstly, GLP-1 therapies may be used by adults for the long-term management of obesity, except in cases of pregnancy. Secondly, the WHO recommended intensive behavioral therapy, which includes dietary and exercise modifications, alongside these medications. "Obesity represents a significant global health challenge that WHO is dedicated to addressing by supporting countries and people worldwide to control it effectively and fairly. Our new guidance recognizes obesity as a chronic disease that can be managed with comprehensive and lifelong care," stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the WHO, in a press release. "While medication alone will not resolve this global health crisis, GLP-1 therapies have the potential to assist millions in overcoming obesity and mitigating its associated harms." However, both recommendations are considered "conditional." According to the WHO, the first recommendation's “conditional” status is due to limited data on the long-term safety and effectiveness of the medications, as well as cost considerations and other factors. The second recommendation received a “conditional” grade based on “low-certainty evidence” suggesting that intensive behavioral therapy improves GLP-1 treatment outcomes.

A Shift in Perspective

Nevertheless, the organization characterizes these drugs as "more than a scientific breakthrough." These drugs signify a shift in how society views obesity—moving from a 'lifestyle condition' to a complex, preventable, and treatable chronic disease. Furthermore, the World Health Organization emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable access to GLP-1 drugs. It is calling for "urgent action on manufacturing, affordability, and system readiness to meet global needs." According to the WHO, "Even with rapid expansion in production, GLP-1 therapies are projected to reach fewer than 10% of those who could benefit by 2030."

GLP-1 Drugs and Their Impact

Well-known GLP-1 drug brands in the U.S. include Ozempic and Mounjaro, which have received FDA approval for diabetes treatment, and Wegovy and Zepbound, which are approved for weight loss. Health tracking apps like Shotlee can help monitor progress and side effects during treatment. WHO estimates that obesity affects over 1 billion individuals worldwide and was linked to 3.7 million deaths in the past year. The organization also notes that in September, GLP-1 therapies were added to its "Essential Medicines List" for managing type 2 diabetes in high-risk groups. "With the new guideline, the WHO issues conditional recommendations for using these therapies to support individuals living with obesity in overcoming this serious health challenge, as part of a comprehensive approach that includes healthy diets, regular physical activity and support from health professionals," the agency stated.