Current Affairs - Science - Discussion

WHO introduced its first clinical guideline for the use of GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide to support long-term obesity management. These medicines, added to the Essential Medicines List in 2025, are recommended alongside lifestyle interventions that include dietary improvements, increased physical activity, and sustained medical follow-up. WHO advised caution regarding the use of these drugs during pregnancy due to insufficient data. With over one billion people worldwide affected by obesity and millions of deaths occurring annually, the guideline aims to provide structured, evidence-based global direction for managing this growing public health challenge.