The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued its first guidance on the use of widely prescribed weight loss drugs, recommending that they can be used to treat obesity when combined with exercise, diet, and counselling. The guidance, published on Monday, aims to provide direction as doctors and health officials debate the role of anti-obesity and diabetes medications such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, which have surged in popularity in recent years.
These medicines belong to a class known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. They work by mimicking a hormone that reduces appetite, helping patients lose weight. However, experts note that many people regain weight after stopping treatment, raising questions about whether the drugs may need to be taken long-term and how to support patients using them.
The WHO guidance covers GLP-1 drugs including tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound), semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus), and liraglutide (Saxenda). The agency described its recommendations as “conditional,” noting that while the drugs can effectively treat obesity and related metabolic health issues, evidence remains limited on their long-term impact, costs, effects on health systems, and other considerations.
Experts welcomed the guidance for emphasizing a comprehensive approach to obesity treatment. Marie Spreckley, a nutritionist and obesity researcher at the University of Cambridge, said the guidance “clearly recognises obesity as a chronic, progressive, and relapsing disease that requires long-term, integrated management rather than short-term treatment.” She also praised its focus on combining medication with behavioural support and ensuring equitable access rather than presenting drugs as a stand-alone solution.
Obesity is a growing global concern, affecting more than 890 million adults worldwide. Being overweight or obese can lead to serious health consequences, contributing to an estimated 3.7 million deaths annually from cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancers, digestive issues, chronic respiratory problems, and neurological disorders.
The WHO guidance advises that obesity treatments should include behavioural support to encourage healthier lifestyles and regular exercise, with long-term follow-up care for patients. Dr John Wilding, a professor of medicine at the University of Liverpool, highlighted that addressing obesity effectively will require coordinated public health efforts, including changes to food systems and the environment for physical activity, alongside improved access to treatment.
The WHO said future updates will focus on expanding access to GLP-1 drugs as they become more widely available. Wilding described the guidance as a welcome first step, noting that it may encourage member states to consider policies that improve access to comprehensive obesity care.
