The Global Health Body Issues Warning Over Acute Shortage of Weight-Loss Injections
Under one in 10 patients that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy are able to get them, caution the WHO as it releases its inaugural recommendations on the medications.
Given over a billion individuals worldwide currently living with obesity, it is advocating for more widespread and fairer availability to this class of drugs.
Based on projections, over two billion could be obese by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our new guidelines recognises that excess weight is a lifelong illness that can be addressed with comprehensive and lifelong support," stated its chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
High costs, insufficient output, and supply-chain constraints are key hurdles to broad access to the injections that can assist patients in reducing substantial body mass, says the body.
Weight-Loss Drug Shortage
Even under the current most favorable outlook, the supply of GLP-1 therapies might only reach about 100 million people – under 10% of those who need them, according to the WHO.
The recommendation calls on nations and manufacturers to increase availability, through measures such as voluntary licensing.
Exclusive production rights on the active ingredient – the core ingredient of a leading brand – is scheduled to end in several countries in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Injections Work
These medications mimick a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness so people consume fewer calories.
People typically see weight reduction within a few weeks of starting on the weekly injections.
Research points to users may see weight return within a year of discontinuing the treatment, as their usual appetite resume.
To be overweight or obese increases your risk for developing health problems, such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, brain attack, and specific cancers.
Obesity affects people in all nations and was responsible for over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, per the health agency.