WHO Issues First Global Guideline for GLP-1 Drugs to Treat Obesity in Adults
Obesity is recognised as a chronic disease needing long-term care . On 1 December 2025, the WHO released its first comprehensive guideline recommending the use of GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) therapies for adults living with obesity. The guideline marks a significant shift: obesity is now further recognised as a complex, chronic disease — one that demands lifelong, structured care rather than quick-fix solutions.
What are GLP-1 therapies? GLP-1 receptor agonists — such as semaglutide, liraglutide and tirzepatide — were originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes. These medicines help reduce appetite, promote a sense of fullness, slow gastric emptying and support weight loss. Over the years, evidence has shown that these drugs can also lower the risks of heart disease, kidney problems, and other metabolic complications in patients with obesity.
Key recommendations from WHO
* GLP-1 therapies may be used for adults (excluding pregnant women) with obesity, as a long-term treatment option. WHO says GLP-1 therapies may be used by adults, but excluding pregnant women, for the long-term treatment of obesity. While the efficacy of these therapies in treating obesity and improving metabolic and other outcomes was evident, the recommendation is conditional due to limited data on their long-term efficacy and safety, maintenance and discontinuation, their current costs, inadequate health-system preparedness, and potential equity implications.
* These medicines should not be standalone solutions. They must be combined with “intensive behavioural interventions”: healthy diet, regular physical activity, and ongoing behavioural and medical support.
WHO highlights that medication alone will not reverse the global obesity crisis — a comprehensive approach is essential.
Why does this guideline matter? Obesity affects over one billion people globally and contributes significantly to chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease and more. By endorsing GLP-1 therapies, WHO aims to provide evidence-based tools for health systems worldwide to offer better care.
Cautions and challenges: not a magic bullet . WHO calls its recommendation “conditional” — because long-term data about safety, cost, and system readiness are still limited.
The guideline also warns against misuse or unregulated distribution — GLP-1 medicines should only be prescribed by qualified medical professionals, with careful monitoring.
A step toward integrated obesity care With this guidance, the WHO encourages countries to build a holistic “obesity care ecosystem”: combining medical therapy, diet and physical activity support, behavioural counselling and long-term follow-up. This approach treats obesity not as a temporary issue but as a chronic health condition requiring sustained, patient-centred care.
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