Description
CATAG developed this national decision-making framework to support the appropriate, equitable, and sustainable use of GLP-1 therapies for obesity in the public hospital sector. The framework supports Medicines and Therapeutics Committees (MTCs) and health services to review formulary and individual patient applications, particularly where use falls outside current Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) criteria. It promotes consistent decision-making and helps services navigate the complex clinical, ethical, and economic considerations.
While GLP-1 therapies demonstrate clinically meaningful benefits in weight reduction and associated health outcomes, their cost, long-term use, and evolving evidence base present important challenges for health services.
Developed through a collaborative national process with expert input from a multidisciplinary working group and CATAG member organisations, this document reflects a shared commitment to quality use of medicines and responsible stewardship of health system resources.