Am J Manag Care. 2025 Dec;31(Spec. No. 15):SP1084-SP1085. doi: 10.37765/ajmc.2025.89854.
ABSTRACT
The recent endorsement of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (Wegovy), by the American College of Cardiology as first-line therapy for weight management marks a paradigm shift in cardiometabolic care. Semaglutide offers significant benefits, including improved glycemic control and substantial weight loss, with emerging data demonstrating its impact even in individuals without diabetes. However, GLP-1 receptor agonists' growing popularity raises important concerns regarding long-term safety, access equity, and health care priorities. Although common adverse effects are gastrointestinal, less frequent but serious risks such as gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, and anesthesia-related complications deserve attention. Obesity, a global epidemic, has traditionally been managed through lifestyle interventions. The increasing reliance on pharmacologic options must not overshadow the foundational role of diet, physical activity, and education. Although GLP-1 receptor agonists represent a powerful advancement in obesity and cardiovascular risk management, its widespread adoption demands a balanced, evidence-based approach that integrates it into a broader, patient-centered strategy. There is a pressing need for comprehensive care models that address both the physiological and behavioral aspects of obesity. As health care systems navigate this therapeutic shift, they must ensure ethical use, cost-effectiveness, and long-term safety. GLP-1 receptor agonists may indeed be a blessing, but only if applied judiciously within the context of holistic obesity management.
PMID:41512269 | DOI:10.37765/ajmc.2025.89854