THE ROLE OF THE PHARMACIST IN MONITORING OBESE PATIENTS UNDER THERAPY WITH GLP-1 RECEPTOR AGONISTS

Abstract

Obesity is a chronic multifactorial disease characterized by excessive body fat accumulation, associated with genetic, metabolic, environmental, and behavioral factors. In recent years, a progressive increase in the prevalence of this condition has been observed both in Brazil and worldwide, establishing it as one of the greatest public health challenges of today. This scenario demands effective and integrated therapeutic strategies, capable of promoting both prevention and proper management of patients. In this context, the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as liraglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide, has been consolidated as a promising alternative, showing significant results in weight reduction and improvement of cardiometabolic parameters. This study aimed to analyze the role of pharmacists in monitoring patients with obesity under treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists, highlighting the importance of this professional in promoting rational drug use, guiding proper administration, monitoring adverse effects, and encouraging therapeutic adherence. Epidemiological, pharmacological, and clinical aspects of treatment were addressed, as well as advances, challenges, and future perspectives in obesity management. The results of the analysis show that pharmacists, integrated into multidisciplinary teams, play a central role in the care of obese patients, acting in an educational, clinical, and preventive manner. Their contribution is fundamental to treatment effectiveness, patient safety, and healthcare system sustainability. It is concluded that strengthening pharmaceutical care in the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists represents not only an advance in clinical practice but also an essential tool to confront obesity as a public health problem.