Epidemiological Alert: Misuse of GLP-1 receptor agonist medications and considerations for the Americas Region - 27 February 2026

In recent months, there has been an increase in the number of countries reporting adverse effects of varying severity associated with the misuse of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists indicated for the treatment of obesity in adults. In this context, the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) urges Member States to strengthen pharmacovigilance systems, promote timely reporting of adverse events, and implement risk communication actions aimed at both the general population—to promote the proper use of these drugs—and health personnel, to ensure that they are prescribed strictly in accordance with the indications approved by national regulatory authorities, based on an individual clinical assessment and with continuous medical monitoring.