Fewer than a tenth of patients who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy can access them, states the World Health Organization as it releases its initial advice on the medications.
With in excess of 1,000,000,000 people worldwide now classified as obese, it is urging broader and more equitable access to this class of drugs.
Based on projections, over two billion could be obese by 2030 without intervention.
"The new guidance recognises that obesity is a long-term condition that can be managed with comprehensive and lifelong treatment," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, insufficient output, and logistical bottlenecks are significant hurdles to broad availability to the injections that can aid individuals in losing considerable body mass, explains the organization.
GLP-1 Therapy Supply Crisis
Even under the current most optimistic outlook, the production of GLP-1 therapies might only reach approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of those who need them, as stated by the health organization.
The guideline encourages nations and manufacturers to expand access, by strategies including licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the main ingredient of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple nations in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Operate
GLP-1 drugs replicate a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, curb appetite and boost feelings of fullness so users eat less.
Patients usually start to lose weight within a few weeks of starting on the regular doses.
Studies suggests users may regain a significant portion after a year of discontinuing the drug, as their typical food cravings resume.
To be carrying excess weight increases your likelihood for experiencing medical conditions, like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and specific cancers.
Excess weight affects individuals in all nations and was associated with millions of deaths worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.
