Less than 10% of people that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy are able to get them, warns the World Health Organization as it releases its first recommendations on the therapies.
With in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide now living with obesity, it is urging broader and more equitable access to GLP-1 medication.
Based on estimates, over two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our latest guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be managed with thorough and ongoing care," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, constrained manufacturing, and distribution challenges are significant barriers to broad availability to the injections that can aid individuals in losing considerable weight, notes the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Scarcity
Despite the present most favorable scenario, the production of these medications could only cover around 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, as stated by the health organization.
The recommendation calls on governments and firms to increase access, via strategies including voluntary licensing.
The intellectual property rights on semaglutide – the primary component of the drug Wegovy – is scheduled to end in multiple countries in 2026.
How Weight-Loss Drugs Operate
The injections replicate a body's own hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and boost satiety so people consume fewer calories.
People typically see weight reduction after several weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Research indicates people may see weight return a year later of halting the drug, because their normal food cravings come back.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your risk for contracting medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, brain attack, and certain cancers.
Excess weight affects individuals in countries worldwide and was linked to millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
