Using Ozempic to slash those extra pounds? WHO backs weight loss drugs for obesity

Have you been wondering if Ozempic (or similar drugs) is the magic shortcut for weight loss? You’re not alone. Obesity is a growing problem worldwide, and many people are curious about using medications to shed extra pounds.Now, when obesity is a real concern globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has stepped in with new guidance: it backs certain weight-loss drugs for treating obesity.This marks a big shift in how obesity is viewed – not just as a lifestyle choice, but as a chronic disease that responds to medical treatment.Read on to know more.

What the WHO’s new (draft) guidelines say

The WHO has proposed using weight-loss drugs, specifically GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide (the class that includes Ozempic, Wegovy) for the long-term treatment of obesity in adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher.

It emphasises that these drugs should be used alongside lifestyle changes (better diet, more physical activity, behavioral counselling), not instead of them.In its draft guidelines (open for public review until September 27, 2025), WHO urges a shift in mindset: obesity should be seen not just as a result of poor habits, but as a chronic, relapsing disease. However, it is to be noted that the weight-loss efforts should include medical treatments in combination with lifestyle changes (diet, physical activity, counselling) rather than relying solely on behaviour.

WHO is also urging for more cheap generics of these drugs so people in low- and middle-income countries can have better access. The high costs of existing branded versions are a big barrier.

What are Ozempic and Wegovy, and how do these drugs help?

Ozempic is semaglutide, approved for type 2 diabetes, but it also causes weight loss in many users. Wegovy is a higher-dose version specifically approved for people with obesity or overweight people with associated health issues.These drugs mimic a hormone called GLP-1 that works in your gut and brain: slows digestion, increases the feeling of fullness, reduces appetite, and improves blood sugar control. Together, these effects help people eat less, feel less hungry, and lose weight.Clinical trials of semaglutide and similar medications have shown average weight loss of 15-20% body weight in many participants when the medication is used consistently for some months along with diet and exercise.

WHO’s new draft guidance: Key points

Eligibility: Adults with BMI ≥ 30. For people in high-income countries, some guidelines also allow BMI 27-30 with at least one weight-related health condition (like high blood pressure, diabetes). WHO’s draft focuses on the higher BMI group.Integrated care: Drugs are not standalone fixes. WHO says they should be used along with behavioural counselling, lifestyle changes (diet, movement), and psychological support when needed.Long-term treatment: Obesity is relapsing – stopping the drug too soon often leads to regaining weight. So planning for long-term use & monitoring is essential. (What people know from earlier studies confirms that weight comes back if the medication is stopped without other ongoing supports.)Access and cost issues: WHO acknowledges that many of these drugs are expensive. In low- and middle-income countries, cost and availability will be big obstacles.

WHO has not yet added obesity treatment drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide to its Essential Medicines List for obesity treatments in all cases, though they are included in some cases (such as for type 2 diabetes with other health risks).

Benefits and potential risks: What to keep in mind

First, let’s look at the pros:Significant weight loss: Many users lose 15-20% or more of their body weight in trials when combining the drug with diet and exercise. That can improve heart health, blood sugar, and blood pressure.Improved metabolic markers: Reduced risk of complications tied to obesity, perhaps fewer cardiovascular events. Now comes the possible cons:Side effects: Common ones include nausea, digestive issues, and maybe mild stomach problems. These tend to reduce over time. But not everyone tolerates them well.Cost and accessibility: For many people, these drugs are expensive, may be unavailable, or not covered by insurance. In poorer countries, cost is a major barrier.

WHO has flagged that.Need for continuous treatment: If usage stops, weight gain is likely. It’s not a “one-and-done” fix. The lifestyle changes must stick.Who qualifies: Drugs may not be safe or recommended for everyone. For example, not for pregnant people, and people must be evaluated by medical providers.

Why this matters

WHO’s backing is more than symbolic. It helps shift public and medical understanding of obesity – from blame or moral judgment (“just eat less, move more”) to recognizing obesity as a disease that may need medical, long-term treatment.

If the WHO adds these drugs to the essential medicines list, more governments might push for them to be more affordable and available. That could mean better access globally.However, it is important and crucial to note that, if you’re considering signing up for Ozempic or similar weight-loss drugs, it’s recommended that you talk to your doctor about whether semaglutide or similar medicines might be helpful. They’ll consider your overall health, possible risks, and ability to maintain lifestyle changes.