The World Health Organisation (WHO) has released its first-ever guideline on the use of GLP-1 medicines to treat obesity, a condition affecting more than 1 billion people worldwide.
Obesity contributed to 3.7 million deaths globally in 2024, and the WHO warns the number of people living with the disease could double by 2030 without urgent action.
The new guideline marks a significant shift in global health policy. It outlines how GLP-1 therapies, already used to treat type 2 diabetes, can be used as part of long-term care for adults with obesity, together with diet, exercise and professional support.
A new tool for treating a chronic disease
“Obesity is a major global health challenge that WHO is committed to addressing,” said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. He stressed that while medicines alone won’t solve the crisis, GLP-1 therapies could help millions manage the disease and reduce related health risks.
Obesity increases the likelihood of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and worse outcomes from infectious illnesses. It also carries a massive economic impact, with yearly global costs expected to reach US$3 trillion by 2030.
What the new guideline recommends
The WHO issued two key conditional recommendations:
- GLP-1 therapies may be used for long-term obesity treatment in adults: Pregnant women are excluded. WHO found the medications effective for weight loss and improving metabolic health, but issued a conditional recommendation due to limited long-term data, high costs, equity concerns and the need for health systems to be better prepared.
- Behavioural support should accompany treatment: Adults prescribed GLP-1 medicines may also be offered structured diet and physical activity programmes. Early evidence shows this combination may improve results.
Medicines aren’t a magic fix
The WHO stresses that obesity is complex and cannot be solved by medication alone. Instead, countries need a three-pronged strategy:
- Healthier environments through policies that promote good nutrition and prevent obesity
- Early support for people at high risk
- Access to lifelong, person-centred care
Concerns over access and fairness
Demand for GLP-1 drugs like liraglutide, semaglutide and tirzepatide has surged worldwide. Yet the WHO estimates fewer than 10% of people who could benefit will be able to access them by 2030.
The guideline urges governments and manufacturers to tackle affordability, increase production and prepare health systems for wider use. Suggested solutions include pooled procurement, tiered pricing and voluntary licensing to broaden access in low- and middle-income countries.
Safety risks and counterfeit products
The WHO also warns of rising cases of falsified and substandard GLP-1 medicines on the market. It calls for stronger regulation, proper prescribing by qualified health professionals, patient education and global cooperation to ensure safety.
What happens next
The guideline was developed after requests from WHO member states seeking clearer direction on obesity treatment. It will be updated regularly as new evidence becomes available.
In 2026, the WHO plans to work with partners to create a framework to ensure people with the greatest need receive treatment first.
