GLP-1 Based Therapies for Obesity in Older Adults: Current Evidence and Emerging Treatments

Anna G Pendrey*, Jennyfer A Rivera, Fernando A Alvarez, Yolanda M Fernandez and Javier F Sevilla Martir

Obesity is rising in prevalence among older adults (individuals over the age of 65 years) and is associated with cardiometabolic conditions, sarcopenia, frailty, and mobility limitations. This age group is particularly susceptible to the loss of lean mass and physical function, even though intentional weight loss may improve metabolic and functional health. This highlights the need for personalized treatment. GLP-1-based therapies affect appetite, energy intake, body weight, and cardiometabolic risk, making them key pharmacological therapies for managing obesity. This review addresses the available evidence on oral semaglutide, semaglutide, tirzepatide, and liraglutide, as well as the novel oral agent orforglipron for obesity management in older adults. While multiple clinical trials in general adult populations have reported clinically meaningful weight loss and improvements in cardiometabolic outcomes, evidence specifically derived from adults aged ≥65 years remains underrepresented, and data for those aged ≥75 years are particularly scarce. Important factors to consider in older adults include sarcopenic obesity, preservation of lean mass, polypharmacy, and gastrointestinal adverse effects. Oral preparations may provide additional treatment options for individuals who have concerns about injectable administration. Future research should prioritize older adults and assess functional outcomes, body composition, and effects on sarcopenia.

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Published on: Sep 4, 2026 Pages: 17-23

Full Text PDF Full Text HTML DOI: 10.17352/gjodms.000071
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