Source: BS
Context: The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first-ever global guideline on the use of GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines for the long-term treatment of obesity.
About WHO’s Global Guideline on GLP-1 Medicines:
What it is?
- A new WHO policy framework offering evidence-based recommendations for using GLP-1 therapies to treat obesity as a chronic, relapsing disease requiring lifelong management.
Key Guidelines Issued:
- Conditional recommendation for long-term use in adults: GLP-1 medicines (semaglutide, tirzepatide, liraglutide) may be used for sustained obesity management—except in pregnant women.
- Must be combined with behavioural interventions: WHO emphasizes that GLP-1 therapy should be paired with structured diet plans, physical activity, and counselling for best outcomes.
- Equity and system readiness: WHO warns that rapid adoption without affordability and access policies could widen health disparities, as <10% of those who need GLP-1 are expected to access them by 2030.
About GLP-1 Medicines:
What they are?
- GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of drugs originally developed for type-2 diabetes that mimic a natural hormone called Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 involved in appetite regulation and insulin control.
How They Work?
- Reduce appetite and slow stomach emptying → lower calorie intake.
- Increase insulin secretion and reduce blood sugar.
- Improve metabolic health, reducing cardiovascular and kidney complications.
- Lead to significant and sustained weight loss when used long-term.
Key Features:
- Highly effective for weight loss (10–20% body weight reduction in many studies).
- Improve multiple obesity-related comorbidities.
- Administered as weekly/ daily injections depending on formulation.
- Included in WHO Essential Medicines List for diabetes management.
