Leading doctors now recommend Mounjaro and Wegovy as the primary treatments for obesity. On October 2, 2025, the European Association for the Study of Obesity released new guidelines in the journal Nature Medicine. These guidelines emphasise the impressive effectiveness of these medications, noting that they can help reduce the risks of high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.
Daily Mail UK reported that Dr Andreea Ciudin from the Autonomous University of Barcelona calls them “transformative” for obesity care. “Semaglutide and tirzepatide are so effective, they should be the first choice in most cases,” she says. Consequently, the guidelines shift treatment standards.
Studies show impressive results. Adults using semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) lost an average of 14% of their body weight over a 72-week period. Meanwhile, users of tirzepatide (Mounjaro) shed 20% in the same period. These outcomes make them powerful tools.
Newly published treatment algorithm for the pharmacologic treatment of obesity and its complications, from the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) ⚕️
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are recommended as first line to treat obesity AND to treat underlying… pic.twitter.com/F84l2pdrsY
— Michael Weintraub, MD (@MWeintraubMD) October 2, 2025Beyond weight loss, the jabs may benefit conditions like chronic kidney disease, neurodegenerative disorders, and mental health issues. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects.
NHS Expansion Plans
In the UK, 16 million adults, 30% of the population, are obese. Yet, only 1.5 million use weight loss jabs, mostly privately at £200 monthly. Health Secretary Wes Streeting, speaking at the Labour Party conference, pledged wider NHS access. “These drugs transform health and confidence,” he said. “We must ensure everyone benefits, not just the wealthy.”
Currently, NHS prescriptions target the most obese patients with multiple conditions. A gradual rollout prevents overwhelming the system, which faces annual obesity costs of £ 11 billion, according to Business Secretary Peter Kyle.
Weight loss jabs Mounjaro and Wegovy are so effective they should be the first treatment for obesity 'in almost all cases', new guidance says https://t.co/skVx2vD6qd
— Daily Mail (@DailyMail) October 3, 2025The guidelines, crafted by international experts including Professor Barbara McGowan from London’s Guys’ & St Thomas’ Hospital, offer a treatment algorithm. It prioritises Mounjaro and Wegovy for significant weight loss. For lesser goals, alternatives such as liraglutide or phentermine-topiramate may be effective.
McGowan emphasises personalised care. “Treatment must consider complications, comorbidities, and patient goals,” she notes. Socioeconomic factors also matter. The algorithm will evolve in response to new drugs and research.
The guidelines stress early intervention. Untreated obesity leads to costly complications. Thus, investing in jabs now could save healthcare systems billions of dollars. However, high costs pose challenges. Countries must balance access with budgets.
