Fewer than a tenth of patients who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy have access to them, caution the World Health Organization as it publishes its first guidance on the medications.
Given more than one billion individuals worldwide now living with obesity, it is urging broader and more equitable access to these injectable treatments.
According to estimates, more than two billion will be living with obesity by 2030 without intervention.
"The latest guidelines recognises that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be treated with comprehensive and ongoing support," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, limited production capacity, and supply-chain constraints are major barriers to universal access to the jabs that can assist patients in reducing substantial body mass, notes the body.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Even under the current most optimistic scenario, the manufacturing of GLP-1 therapies might only reach approximately 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, as stated by the health organization.
The guideline calls on governments and firms to widen access, via measures including licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on a key compound – the primary component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of nations in 2026.
The Way Obesity Jabs Function
These medications replicate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, reduce hunger and boost feelings of fullness so users reduce food intake.
Patients commonly see weight reduction in the initial weeks of beginning the regular doses.
Evidence indicates users may regain a significant portion a year later of stopping the treatment, because their typical food cravings resume.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your chance for developing medical conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and some cancers.
Obesity concerns individuals in every country and was linked to 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
