Types of medicines used in obesity care
European obesity care includes medicines with different mechanisms. Well-known options include GLP-1 receptor agonists, combined GIP/GLP-1 activity and other anti-obesity medicines. Availability varies by member state.
GLP-1, semaglutide and tirzepatide
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Tirzepatide acts on both GIP and GLP-1 receptors. These treatments are not interchangeable and suitability must be assessed individually.
Obesity treatment is not cosmetic crash dieting
The aim of medical treatment is long-term management of a chronic disease and its health risks, not a quick cosmetic loss of a few kilograms. Clinicians therefore assess more than BMI alone.
What to review before treatment
- current medical conditions and medicines
- previous weight-management attempts
- contraindications and potential adverse effects
- a realistic follow-up and monitoring plan
Sources and review
Information is based on European regulatory sources. Availability, reimbursement and prescribing rules vary between EU countries.
Sources last checked: 1 September 2026.