A new phase in obesity care

Where did the change begin?

GLP-1 medicines were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. They mimic a hormone involved in regulating blood glucose and appetite. In obesity care, attention focuses on satiety, food intake and weight reduction. [2]

What does the evidence show?

In December 2025, WHO published its first global guideline on GLP-1 therapies for obesity in adults. Its recommendation for long-term use is conditional: benefits are supported by evidence, but questions remain about long-term safety, discontinuation and access. The guideline does not cover pregnant women. [1]

Medication forms part of care that also includes nutrition, physical activity and other individual support. Suitability for treatment requires clinical assessment. [2]

What remains to be resolved?

A new treatment also raises practical questions. How is follow-up organised? How can continuity of care be maintained? WHO emphasises costs, health-system readiness and equitable access. Developing a medicine alone does not ensure that people can access it. [1]

Questions for learning

Educational reflection questions from Akamedia

• How does the medicine's mechanism of action relate to treatment goals?
• What does a conditional recommendation tell us about certainty of evidence?
• How should effectiveness and access be assessed together?

Plain-language summary

Obesity care is best understood as a long-term approach. This briefing focuses on the connection between research evidence, follow-up and access to care.