Under one in 10 patients that would benefit from obesity jabs such as Wegovy have access to them, states the WHO as it issues its inaugural advice on the drugs.
Considering in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide currently classified as obese, it is calling for broader and more equitable availability to this class of drugs.
According to estimates, over two billion are projected to be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"The new guidance acknowledges that obesity is a chronic disease that can be addressed with holistic and continuous support," said its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Significant expense, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are major barriers to universal access to the injections that can help people shift significant weight, says the agency.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even under the current most favorable scenario, the supply of GLP-1 therapies could only cover approximately 100 million people – fewer than 10% of eligible patients, according to the health organization.
The recommendation encourages governments and firms to widen availability, by measures like voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the core component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Injections Function
These medications imitate a natural hormone to slow digestion, curb appetite and enhance the sense of being full so individuals reduce food intake.
People typically see weight reduction within a few weeks of beginning the once-weekly jabs.
Studies suggests users may put most of the weight back on a year later of discontinuing the drug, because their normal food cravings return.
To be carrying excess weight elevates your chance for contracting health problems, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and some malignancies.
Obesity concerns people in countries worldwide and was responsible for millions of fatalities worldwide in 2024, as per the health agency.
