New Delhi: The World Health Organization (WHO) is preparing to formally endorse the use of weight-loss injections such as Ozempic for the first time in the fight against obesity. This global recommendation, expected to be announced in August, marks a significant step forward in treating one of the world’s most pressing public health issues.
Currently, over a billion people worldwide are living with obesity, a figure that continues to grow year after year. In the UK alone, approximately two-thirds of the adult population is either overweight or obese, prompting increased attention from global health authorities. The WHO’s forthcoming guidance, reported by Reuters, will include separate recommendations for children and adolescents living with obesity as well.
Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, and Saxenda fall under a class known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs work by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar and suppresses appetite. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, these injections have gained popularity for their weight-reducing effects, especially among those who have struggled with conventional weight loss methods.
Although drugs like Ozempic are available almost easily and readily, but only for patients of type-2 diabetes. However, for weight loss purposes, their access is largely restricted. Wegovy is prescribed instead. Clinically, these shots are effective enough to reduce weight by 15 to 20%, depending on which drug is used. Studies also suggest that these can reduce the incidence of heart attacks and strokes.
Despite growing popularity, GLP-1 drugs must not be taken mindlessly as they do not come without their share of risks. Doctors say that there are potential side effects like pancreatitis, gastroparesis and even possibility of vision loss. The WHO is also deliberating whether to add these weight-loss injections to its Essential Medicines List for treating both obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Affordability continues to be a cause of concern, especially citing the rising rate of obesity cases in the world. Therefore, the WHO recommends solutions like pooled procurement of these shots to boost accessibility. However, with rising obesity rates, including GLP-1 drugs in global treatment protocol can go a long way in disease prevention and weight management.
Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, and Saxenda fall under a class known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs work by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar and suppresses appetite. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
