World Health Organization Raises Concern Over Acute Lack of Obesity Medications

Less than one in 10 patients that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy have access to them, warns the global health agency as it releases its initial advice on the medications.

Considering over a billion individuals worldwide currently living with obesity, it is urging more widespread and fairer access to GLP-1 medication.

According to estimates, over two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.

"The latest guidance recognises that excess weight is a chronic disease that can be managed with holistic and ongoing care," said the agency's head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Significant expense, insufficient output, and logistical bottlenecks are key barriers to widespread availability to the injections that can aid individuals in losing significant body mass, notes the agency.

Skinny Jab Scarcity

Even in the present best projected case, the manufacturing of these medications would only suffice for about 100 million people – under 10% of eligible patients, according to the WHO.

The recommendation calls on governments and firms to increase access, through measures like voluntary licensing.

The intellectual property rights on a key compound – the core ingredient of a leading brand – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.

The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Operate

GLP-1 drugs mimick a body's own hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and boost the sense of being full so users eat less.

People commonly start to lose weight after several weeks of starting on the regular doses.

Research suggests people may see weight return a year later of discontinuing the treatment, as their typical appetite return.

Being carrying excess weight elevates your risk for experiencing diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some malignancies.

Excess weight affects individuals in all nations and was linked to 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the health agency.