Overview
- The UN health agency formally endorsed semaglutide, liraglutide and tirzepatide for chronic obesity care in new guidance.
- The recommendation is conditional and specifies long-term use in adults for six months or more, excluding pregnant women.
- WHO estimates current manufacturing can reach about 100 million people, well under the nearly one billion who could benefit.
- To protect equity, the guidance urges tiered pricing, pooled procurement and licensing or technology transfer to expand access.
- The advice emphasizes integrating medication with diet, physical activity and primary-care support, noting prior shortages for diabetes patients and concerns about weight regain after stopping treatment.