WHO Sounds Concern Over Severe Scarcity of Obesity Medications

Less than one in 10 individuals that would benefit from weight-loss injections including Wegovy are able to get them, caution the WHO as it publishes its first advice on the medications.

Considering over a billion people worldwide now obese, it is advocating for more widespread and fairer availability to this class of drugs.

According to forecasts, more than two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.

"Our latest guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be treated with thorough and ongoing support," remarked the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Substantial prices, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are major barriers to widespread access to the jabs that can help people shift substantial weight, says the agency.

Skinny Jab Shortage

Even in the current best projected case, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies could only cover approximately 100 million people – less than 10% of eligible patients, according to the health organization.

The guideline encourages countries and companies to expand access, through measures including licensing agreements.

Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the primary ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple nations in 2026.

How Weight-Loss Injections Function

GLP-1 drugs replicate a biological compound to delay gastric emptying, reduce hunger and boost satiety so users reduce food intake.

People usually see weight reduction after several weeks of commencing the once-weekly jabs.

Evidence points to users may regain a significant portion a year later of stopping the treatment, when their typical food cravings return.

To be above a healthy weight elevates your likelihood for contracting medical conditions, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and certain cancers.

Obesity impacts individuals in all nations and was linked to millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.