WHO Raises Concern Over Severe Scarcity of Weight-Loss Jabs

Less than one in 10 people eligible to benefit from GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy are able to get them, warns the global health agency as it publishes its first guidance on the medications.

With over a billion individuals worldwide currently classified as obese, it is calling for increased and just access to this class of drugs.

Based on projections, over two billion will be obese by 2030 if no action is taken.

"Our new guidelines affirms that obesity is a lifelong illness that can be treated with holistic and continuous support," stated WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Significant expense, insufficient output, and logistical bottlenecks are significant barriers to widespread availability to the jabs that can help people shift considerable body mass, notes the body.

Skinny Jab Supply Crisis

Despite the current most favorable scenario, the production of such drugs could only cover around 100 million people – less than 10% of the global need, according to the health organization.

The guideline urges countries and companies to increase availability, via measures like voluntary licensing.

Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the core component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in several countries in 2026.

The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Operate

GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone to delay gastric emptying, suppress the appetite and enhance satiety so users consume fewer calories.

Patients typically see weight reduction within a few weeks of beginning the regular doses.

Studies suggests people may regain a significant portion after a year of discontinuing the medication, when their normal appetite return.

To be carrying excess weight elevates your chance for developing medical conditions, like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and some malignancies.

Excess weight impacts people in countries worldwide and was linked to 3.7 million fatalities worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.