Under a tenth of people who could benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy can access them, warns the global health agency as it releases its inaugural recommendations on the drugs.
Given over a billion individuals worldwide currently obese, it is calling for increased and just availability to these injectable treatments.
Based on forecasts, over two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidance recognises that obesity is a chronic disease that can be treated with thorough and continuous treatment," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, constrained manufacturing, and logistical bottlenecks are key hurdles to broad availability to the jabs that can assist patients in reducing significant weight, explains the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even under the present most optimistic outlook, the manufacturing of these medications could only cover around 100 million people – less than 10% of the global need, per the WHO.
The recommendation urges governments and firms to expand access, via strategies such as licensing agreements.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the core ingredient of the drug Wegovy – is due to expire in multiple countries in 2026.
The Way Obesity Injections Work
The injections imitate a body's own hormone to slow digestion, suppress the appetite and boost feelings of fullness so individuals reduce food intake.
Patients typically start to lose weight after several weeks of commencing the weekly injections.
Evidence suggests users may regain a significant portion a year later of stopping the drug, when their usual food cravings resume.
To be overweight or obese increases your likelihood for experiencing medical conditions, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and specific malignancies.
Obesity impacts individuals in every country and was associated with 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the WHO.
