Are GLP-1 medicines, designed for treating obesity, being misused? The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is sounding the alarm, urging countries in the Americas to strengthen pharmacovigilance measures. But here's where it gets controversial... While these medicines, like semaglutide and dulaglutide, have shown promise in treating type 2 diabetes and obesity, there are concerns about their off-label use and the potential for misuse. In this article, we'll explore the risks and recommendations from PAHO, and invite you to share your thoughts in the comments.
The Growing Demand and Risks
PAHO notes that the increasing demand for GLP-1 medicines may encourage their commercialization through unofficial channels, including the internet and social media. This raises the risk of exposure to falsified, unauthorized, or substandard quality products. These products may contain incorrect doses, different active ingredients, or undeclared substances, which can lead to therapeutic failure, serious adverse reactions, and other complications, in addition to generating additional costs for patients and health systems.
The Importance of Multidisciplinary Care
Obesity is recognized as a chronic disease that requires a comprehensive and sustained approach. In this context, PAHO underscores that the use of pharmacological interventions should be carefully assessed within multidisciplinary, person-centered care models, considering the individual clinical profile, comorbidities, and the benefit-risk balance of each therapeutic option.
The Role of WHO and National Regulatory Authorities
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued global guidance on the appropriate and supervised use of GLP-1 medicines, based on the latest scientific evidence. In February 2026, the WHO Expert Committee on the Selection and Use of Essential Medicines supported the publication of the 24th edition of the Model List of Essential Medicines, which recommends including semaglutide, dulaglutide, liraglutide, and tirzepatide as additional therapies for adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular or chronic kidney disease who also have obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²).
The Need for Strengthened Pharmacovigilance
PAHO recommends that countries strengthen national pharmacovigilance systems to promptly detect and report adverse events, including those associated with off-label use or procurement through unauthorized channels. This includes training health personnel on risks, interactions, contraindications, and warning signs, and intensifying oversight of the pharmaceutical market and supply chain to prevent the circulation of substandard or falsified products.
The Importance of Public and Professional Communication
PAHO also emphasizes the need for developing communication strategies targeted to the public and health professionals to inform them about the risks of use without medical supervision and about official channels for reporting adverse events. The Organization stresses that these medicines should be used exclusively under medical prescription and with appropriate clinical follow-up.
A Call to Action
In conclusion, while GLP-1 medicines have shown promise in treating obesity, it's crucial to ensure their appropriate use and strengthen pharmacovigilance measures. By working together, national regulatory authorities, healthcare professionals, and the public can help protect patients from the risks of misuse and ensure that these medicines are used effectively and safely. So, what do you think? Do you agree with PAHO's recommendations? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
