The Global Health Body Raises Alert Over Acute Scarcity of Weight-Loss Medications
Under 10% of patients eligible to benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy can access them, warns the global health agency as it publishes its initial recommendations on the therapies.
With more than one billion people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is calling for more widespread and fairer access to this class of drugs.
According to projections, in excess of 2,000,000,000 will be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our latest guidance recognises that obesity is a long-term condition that can be managed with comprehensive and lifelong support," said WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are key barriers to widespread availability to the jabs that can aid individuals in losing significant weight, notes the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Despite the present most optimistic scenario, the manufacturing of these medications might only reach about 100 million people – fewer than 10% of eligible patients, per the WHO.
The advice calls on countries and companies to increase access, by approaches like licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the core component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is set to lapse in several countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Drugs Operate
GLP-1 drugs replicate a biological compound to delay gastric emptying, suppress the appetite and enhance satiety so individuals reduce food intake.
Individuals usually see weight reduction after several weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Studies indicates people may regain a significant portion after a year of discontinuing the treatment, as their normal appetite resume.
To be carrying excess weight increases your likelihood for developing diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and specific cancers.
Obesity concerns people in countries worldwide and was responsible for millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
