Less than a tenth of people that would benefit from GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy have access to them, states the global health agency as it issues its initial advice on the therapies.
With more than one billion people worldwide currently classified as obese, it is calling for more widespread and fairer access to GLP-1 medication.
According to projections, over two billion could be living with obesity by 2030 unless action is taken.
"Our latest guidance acknowledges that excess weight is a long-term condition that can be managed with comprehensive and lifelong support," said WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Substantial prices, limited production capacity, and distribution challenges are significant hurdles to broad availability to the jabs that can help people shift considerable weight, notes the body.
Skinny Jab Shortage
Even in the current best projected outlook, the production of such drugs might only reach about 100 million people – less than 10% of those who need them, as stated by the WHO.
The advice encourages countries and companies to widen access, by measures including patent sharing.
A patent on semaglutide – the main component of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy – is due to expire in a number of nations in 2026.
The Way Weight-Loss Drugs Operate
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone to reduce digestion speed, suppress the appetite and increase feelings of fullness so users eat less.
People usually see weight reduction within a few weeks of commencing the weekly injections.
Studies suggests patients may see weight return within a year of stopping the medication, as their typical appetite resume.
Being above a healthy weight raises your risk for contracting diseases, like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, stroke, and certain cancers.
Excess weight affects individuals in countries worldwide and was responsible for over three and a half million deaths worldwide in 2024, according to the WHO.
