Body image in the age of GLP-1s: Emerging questions for research and practice

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s), including semaglutide and tirzepatide, are rapidly transforming weight management practices and public discourse surrounding bodies, health, and responsibility. Although biomedical outcomes of GLP-1 use are being actively studied, their psychological and sociocultural implications remain comparatively underexamined. In particular, body image has received little systematic attention despite its central relevance to motivations for weight loss, experiences of bodily change, and longer-term psychological adjustment. This paper argues that body image should be conceptualised not merely as an outcome of GLP-1 use, but as a key motivator, mediator, and moderator across the treatment trajectory. Drawing on existing literature on body image, weight loss interventions, weight stigma, and cosmetic procedures, we identify critical gaps in the emerging evidence base and outline priorities for future research. These include prospective and longitudinal studies examining body image before, during, and after GLP-1 use; investigation of individual vulnerability factors and heterogeneity in psychological responses; and analysis of broader societal consequences related to weight stigma, media representation, and inequities in access. We highlight the need for body image-informed psychological support for individuals using GLP-1s, alongside education and training for healthcare and other professionals working with this population. Addressing these gaps is essential to ensure that the expanding use of GLP-1s sits alongside psychological support and wellbeing, rather than reinforcing appearance-contingent self-worth or weight-based harm.