Use of GLP-1 Analogues in the Management of Obesity: An Updated Review

Obesity is a chronic, multifactorial condition associated with an increased risk of a wide range of comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension and cardiovascular disease.Given its rising global prevalence and the consequent economic and social burden, new therapeutic strategies have been investigated to help control body-mass index (BMI).Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues were first introduced for type 2 diabetes because of their glucose-modulating and appetite-regulating actions.Subsequent evidence revealed significant benefits for BMI reduction in people with or without diabetes.Drugs such as liraglutide and semaglutide have been widely studied, delivering mean weight losses above 10 % and, in some trials, 15 % or more together with improvements in metabolic parameters such as blood glucose and lipid profile.Nevertheless, gastrointestinal adverse effects, treatment cost and unequal access still limit widespread use.This review discusses the efficacy, safety, limitations and future prospects of GLP-1 analogues in obesity management, emphasising the need for lifestyle modification and multidisciplinary follow-up.