Less than a tenth of individuals eligible to benefit from GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy can access them, warns the World Health Organization as it issues its first advice on the therapies.
Given in excess of 1,000,000,000 individuals worldwide now classified as obese, it is urging broader and more equitable availability to this class of drugs.
Per projections, more than two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 if no action is taken.
"The new guidance recognises that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be treated with thorough and continuous treatment," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, constrained manufacturing, and supply-chain constraints are significant barriers to broad access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing substantial weight, notes the body.
Skinny Jab Supply Crisis
Even under the present most favorable outlook, the production of GLP-1 therapies could only cover approximately 100 million people – less than 10% of eligible patients, per the WHO.
The recommendation encourages governments and firms to expand availability, by approaches like licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the main component of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Jabs Function
GLP-1 drugs replicate a body's own hormone to slow digestion, reduce hunger and boost satiety so users consume fewer calories.
Patients commonly see weight reduction in the initial weeks of beginning the once-weekly jabs.
Research points to users may regain a significant portion after a year of discontinuing the drug, as their normal hunger resume.
Being overweight or obese increases your likelihood for developing medical conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and specific cancers.
Excess weight concerns individuals in countries worldwide and was associated with over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, as per the WHO.
