Less than one in 10 patients who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy have access to them, caution the World Health Organization as it releases its initial advice on the drugs.
Considering more than one billion individuals worldwide currently obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable access to GLP-1 medication.
Per forecasts, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidelines recognises that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be treated with holistic and lifelong treatment," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are key barriers to universal access to the jabs that can assist patients in reducing substantial weight, says the agency.
Weight-Loss Drug Supply Crisis
Even under the current best projected scenario, the supply of GLP-1 therapies would only suffice for around 100 million people – less than 10% of eligible patients, per the WHO.
The guideline calls on countries and companies to expand availability, via approaches including licensing agreements.
The intellectual property rights on the active ingredient – the primary component of the drug Wegovy – is scheduled to end in a number of nations in 2026.
How Obesity Jabs Function
These medications imitate a biological compound to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and boost the sense of being full so people consume fewer calories.
Individuals usually start to lose weight in the initial weeks of starting on the weekly injections.
Research points to people may regain a significant portion within a year of halting the drug, as their typical appetite come back.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your chance for experiencing medical conditions, like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Obesity impacts people in all nations and was linked to 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
