Less than one in 10 people that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy are able to get them, states the WHO as it issues its first guidance on the drugs.
Considering in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide currently obese, it is urging broader and more equitable access to these injectable treatments.
According to projections, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with thorough and lifelong support," remarked its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are major obstacles to universal availability to the jabs that can help people shift considerable body mass, notes the body.
GLP-1 Therapy Shortage
Even under the current most optimistic scenario, the supply of such drugs would only suffice for approximately 100 million people – under 10% of the global need, according to the health organization.
The recommendation calls on countries and companies to widen availability, through measures including licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on semaglutide – the primary ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Function
GLP-1 drugs replicate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, suppress the appetite and enhance satiety so people eat less.
People typically start to lose weight in the initial weeks of beginning the weekly injections.
Studies indicates people may put most of the weight back on within a year of discontinuing the drug, when their typical food cravings come back.
To be above a healthy weight raises your risk for developing diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain cancers.
Excess weight impacts people in every country and was associated with millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
