Fewer than a tenth of individuals eligible to benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy have access to them, warns the World Health Organization as it releases its first advice on the medications.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now classified as obese, it is calling for increased and just access to this class of drugs.
Based on estimates, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidance acknowledges that obesity is a long-term condition that can be managed with holistic and lifelong care," stated the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are significant barriers to widespread access to the treatments that can help people shift substantial weight, notes the organization.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Despite the present most optimistic case, the manufacturing of these medications would only suffice for about 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, per the WHO.
The recommendation encourages nations and manufacturers to increase availability, by strategies including voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the core ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Injections Work
These medications mimick a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and increase satiety so people eat less.
Individuals typically see weight reduction within a few weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Research suggests users may see weight return within a year of stopping the medication, because their typical appetite come back.
To be carrying excess weight increases your likelihood for contracting diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain cancers.
Obesity impacts people in every country and was linked to over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
