There has been meaningful progress in the pharmacotherapy of obesity, with the landscape rapidly advancing. A recent systematic review and network meta-analysis evaluated many obesity management medications (OMMs) in randomized controlled trials, some now delivering double-digit body-weight loss along with beneficial metabolic outcomes.

This Emerging Guidance highlights key findings, providing an update on current approved/widely used anti-obesity medications and newer GLP-1/incretin-based agents. It is necessary to note that using these medications is not without risk: gastrointestinal side-effects are common; muscle/lean mass loss and weight regain after cessation are concerns; and longer-term safety data are still evolving. They should therefore be used with lifestyle interventions, under medical supervision and in the context of shared decision-making.