WHO Issues First Global Guidelines on GLP-1 Weight-Loss Drugs

Why in the News?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first-ever global guidelines on the use of GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs for weight loss. These drugs have rapidly gained global popularity for obesity management, including in India.

About GLP-1 Drugs

What Are They?

GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) receptor agonists are synthetic, laboratory-developed versions of the natural GLP-1 hormone. They were originally designed for type-2 diabetes, but are now widely used as anti-obesity medications in adults.

Mode of Use:

• Mostly injectable formulations
• Oral versions are under development and early use

Examples:

1. Semaglutide (brands: Ozempic, Wegovy)
2. Tirzepatide (brand: Mounjaro, Zepbound)

Both are available in India and have significantly changed obesity and diabetes management.

How GLP-1 Drugs Work

GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the action of the natural GLP-1 hormone and work through several mechanisms:

1. Increase Insulin Release

• Boost insulin secretion from the pancreas
• Only when blood glucose levels are high (prevents hypoglycemia)

2. Reduce Glucagon Production

• Inhibits glucagon secretion
• Decreases the liver’s production of glucose

3. Slow Gastric Emptying

• Food remains longer in the stomach
• Prevents sudden spikes in blood sugar

4. Suppress Appetite

• Reduces hunger signals
• Helps people feel full quicker
• Leads to clinically significant weight loss

Key Biological Facts About GLP-1

1. A Naturally Occurring Incretin Hormone

• GLP-1 is an incretin, a hormone released after meals that stimulates insulin.

2. Dual Role – Hormone & Neurotransmitter

• Acts in the gut and also in the brain’s appetite-control centers.

3. Secreted From:

• Small intestine (L-cells)
• Hindbrain (nucleus of the solitary tract)

4. How It Regulates Blood Sugar

Once released, GLP-1:

• Travels to the pancreas
• Stimulates insulin release
• Suppresses glucagon
• Maintains stable blood sugar after meals

WHO’s New Global Guidelines

Although the detailed WHO guidelines apply mostly to adults with obesity, their intent is to:

• Standardize global use
• Ensure safety monitoring
• Educate patients about side effects
• Prevent misuse for cosmetic weight loss
• Promote evidence-based prescriptions over social-media trends

Why These Guidelines Matter

• GLP-1 drugs have created a revolution in obesity treatment, but also concerns about:
  • Supply shortages
  • Unsafe self-medication
  • Fake products online
  • Long-term side effects
  • Rising dependence on injections
• WHO guidelines aim to balance benefits vs. risks, especially for low- and middle-income countries like India.