Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Saxenda — these names have become familiar well beyond the physician's office. GLP-1 analogues (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) represent one of the most significant pharmacological advances of the past thirty years in endocrinology. In December 2025, the WHO dedicated its first global guidelines to them, recognising their role in combating the global obesity epidemic.[1]
GLP-1 is a peptide hormone secreted by L-cells of the small intestine in response to nutrient ingestion. Synthetic analogues reproduce and extend its natural action.
What sets GLP-1 analogues apart from other antidiabetics: their action is multisystemic. They do not merely lower blood glucose — they act simultaneously on the pancreas, brain, liver, stomach and cardiovascular system.
| Molecule | Brand | Indication | Weight loss | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | Ozempic® / Wegovy® | T2D / Obesity | ~15–21% | 1×/week |
| Tirzepatide | Mounjaro® | T2D / Obesity | ~16–22% | 1×/week |
| Liraglutide | Victoza® / Saxenda® | T2D / Obesity | ~5–8% | 1×/day |
| Dulaglutide | Trulicity® | T2D | ~3–5% | 1×/week |
* Weight loss as % of initial body weight in pivot trials · T2D = type 2 diabetes
In February 2026, a new Wegovy® (semaglutide) dose of 7.2 mg was approved. STEP-UP trial results show an average weight loss of 21% of initial body weight over 72 weeks.[4]
The WHO published its first recommendations on GLP-1 analogue use in obesity in December 2025. The recommendation is conditional — long-term efficacy and safety data remain limited. Obesity affects more than one billion people worldwide and caused 3.7 million deaths in 2024.[1]
A major BMJ meta-analysis (37 studies, 9,341 participants):[3]
What this means in practice
GLP-1 analogues do not cure obesity — they treat it as long as they are taken. Discontinuation must be anticipated with the patient, with a nutritional and physical activity support plan.
GLP-1 receptors are present in the brain's mesolimbic system — at the heart of reward and addiction circuits. Animal studies and clinical observations in diabetic and obese patients suggest reduced cravings for alcohol, tobacco and certain drugs.[6] Specific clinical trials are underway. No official indication for addictions currently exists, but this field could transform addiction management in coming years.
GLP-1 consultations generate above-average documentation volume: progressive titration, side effect monitoring, dose adjustments, specialist referrals. Clinovus AI automatically structures each consultation into a SOAP note with the specific GLP-1 follow-up elements: weight, BMI, HbA1c, reported side effects, dose adjustment.
See also our article on automatic SOAP notes with AI.
Are GLP-1 analogues reimbursed in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, GLP-1 analogues are reimbursed by compulsory health insurance (KVG/LAMal) for insufficiently controlled type 2 diabetes, subject to conditions. For obesity, the situation varies by canton and supplementary insurer. Swissmedic has granted market authorisations for Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Victoza®, Saxenda® and Mounjaro®. Consult the Speciality List (SL) for current reimbursement conditions.
What should be done when a patient stops GLP-1 treatment?
A 2026 BMJ meta-analysis (37 studies, 9,341 participants) shows that after stopping treatment, average weight regain is approximately 0.4 kg per month, with return to baseline weight in an average of 1.7 years. Cardiometabolic markers also return to baseline levels in approximately 1.4 years. Discontinuation should therefore be anticipated with the patient, with reinforced nutritional and physical activity support.
Can GLP-1 analogues treat addiction?
This is a serious research avenue but still in clinical trial phase. GLP-1 analogues act on GLP-1 receptors in the mesolimbic brain system, involved in reward and addiction circuits. Animal studies and clinical observations in diabetic and obese patients suggest reduced cravings for alcohol, tobacco and certain drugs. Specific clinical trials are underway. No official indication for addictions currently exists.
What are the most common side effects?
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea (especially at treatment initiation). These are generally transient and manageable with slow titration. Less commonly: pancreatitis, gallbladder problems. Under surveillance: non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION) — very rare, but being added to the SmPCs of semaglutide products.
Obesity management, dose adjustment, side effects — automatically generate SOAP notes and referral letters. Hosted in Switzerland, nFADP-compliant.
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