WHO Releases Guidelines for GLP-1s and Obesity

Despite their origins as diabetes medications, much of the GLP-1 conversation now centers on weight loss. FDA-approved options such as Wegovy and Zepbound are marketed for weight management, and the growing off-label use of Ozempic has only intensified the trend. But now we have more clarity: As of Monday, December 1, the World Health Organization (WHO) released its first guidelines on the use of GLP-1 medications to address obesity—providing evidence-based recommendations on when these drugs are appropriate, how long they should be used and how they fit into comprehensive, long-term care.

Here’s what to know about the newly released guidelines.

What the New WHO Guidelines Really Recommend

The guidelines lay out two main recommendations, backed by a few good practice notes to shape how obesity should be managed long-term. The first: Adults with obesity (BMI> 30 kg/m²) can use GLP-1 medications as long-term treatment, defined by WHO as continued use for 6 months or longer.

The second recommendation says people on GLP-1s may get more hands-on behavioral support to help with the lifestyle side of treatment. The good practice notes (essentially WHO’s reminders about the support systems that should be in place) stress the need for greater access to long-term care programs, prevention tools and treatment for conditions linked to obesity.

Who GLP-1 Treatment Is Intended For

According to the guideline, GLP-1 medications are meant for adults living with obesity and should be used within a chronic-care approach. And while the terms “overweight” and “obese” get tossed around interchangeably, they’re not the same thing here. In this context, obesity is defined as a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher—and that’s the group this recommendation applies to.

It does not extend to adults with a BMI between 27 and 30 kg/m², even though that range often shows up in clinical trials for these medications. The organization calls out this distinction on purpose: the strongest evidence—and the greatest need—lies with adults who meet the clinical definition of obesity.

Cost and Access Still Limit Widespread Use

The cost of GLP-1 therapy, especially for long-term use, is a concern that’s been growing among users. While WHO’s guidelines didn’t speak to the exact costs, they did acknowledge the challenge it presents.

Between production capacity, availability, affordability and the preparedness of facilities, the current demand for GLP-1 meds is marginally met. Addressing these issues requires a new approach that includes beefing up prevention and treatment options, including generic production and local manufacturing. Put simply, GLP-1s may still be pricey and hard to access, even with WHO’s backing.

GLP-1s Aren’t a Standalone Solution

GLP-1 medications alone are not a complete solution for treating obesity; instead, they are a treatment tool for adults to use alongside a healthy diet and regular physical activity. While GLP-1s have proven to provide clinically meaningful weight loss and broad metabolic benefits with long-term use, they work best when paired with a healthy lifestyle.