MoH issues guidelines on safe use of weight-loss drugs

2026-01-28 - 16:53

Muscat – The Ministry of Health (MoH) has issued a comprehensive guide outlining the responsible use of weight-loss medications, stressing that such treatments should be used strictly under medical supervision. In a statement, the ministry classified weight-loss drugs as medical interventions intended for individuals suffering from obesity or significant weight gain, and not as cosmetic or lifestyle products. It explained that these medications work through three main mechanisms: suppressing appetite, increasing the feeling of fullness, and reducing the absorption of dietary fats. To ensure safety and effectiveness, MoH emphasised a structured three-step approach. The first step requires patients to undergo a medical consultation with a specialist, during which their full medical history is assessed and an appropriate treatment plan is determined. The second stage involves integrating the medication into a comprehensive lifestyle programme, including regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, adherence to a balanced diet, and maintaining consistent physical activity. The final phase focuses on safety and compliance, with the ministry instructing patients to store medications correctly, avoid sharing them with others, and seek immediate medical advice if any side effects occur. MoH warned against the unsupervised use of weight-loss drugs, underscoring that only a qualified physician is authorised to prescribe such treatments.