Fewer than a tenth of people who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy have access to them, states the WHO as it releases its first recommendations on the medications.
With over a billion individuals worldwide currently living with obesity, it is calling for increased and just access to this class of drugs.
Based on estimates, more than two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.
"Our latest guidance recognises that obesity is a long-term condition that can be managed with holistic and ongoing support," stated the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, insufficient output, and supply-chain constraints are significant obstacles to universal availability to the injections that can aid individuals in losing significant weight, notes the agency.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even under the present most optimistic case, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies might only reach approximately 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, according to the health organization.
The guideline encourages nations and manufacturers to expand access, through measures including voluntary licensing.
A patent on the active ingredient – the primary component of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Work
GLP-1 drugs replicate a natural hormone to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and enhance satiety so people consume fewer calories.
People commonly see weight reduction within a few weeks of commencing the weekly injections.
Evidence points to people may see weight return a year later of stopping the treatment, because their usual appetite return.
Being carrying excess weight raises your likelihood for experiencing medical conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some cancers.
Excess weight concerns people in countries worldwide and was linked to 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
