Ever since the launch of GLP-1 drugs such as semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) - which help control blood sugar and promote weight loss - the landscape around weight loss has changed utterly. Now, the WHO endorses the use of GLP-1 drugs. It emphasises the need to offer patients behavioural interventions alongside the prescription of GLP-1 drugs to help guide their weight loss. With all the hype surrounding novel drug treatments for obesity, where does this leave bariatric surgery? It still has a role, research suggests, especially in producing significant and durable weight loss.

Source: The Irish Times January 26, 2026 08:32 UTC