In a groundbreaking move that could reshape obesity treatment worldwide, the World Health Organization (WHO) is leaning towards officially endorsing the inclusion of weight-loss medications for adults in its Essential Medicines List. This revelation comes from an exclusive report by Reuters.

New data suggests that popular obesity treatments, such as Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Zepbound, may soon be recognized as essential medicines—those deemed crucial for addressing the most pressing health needs globally. The WHO updates its Essential Medicines List every two years based on the recommendations of a select team of experts, emphasizing that these drugs should be accessible in functioning healthcare systems.

However, a significant hurdle remains: affordability. A single monthly supply of Wegovy or Zepbound can exceed $1,000, placing these vital treatments out of reach for many, especially in low- and middle-income nations. The WHO has expressed concerns regarding access and affordability, hinting at plans to advocate for strategies that could enhance the availability of these medications.

According to the internal WHO communication, adopting access mechanisms similar to those used in large-scale medical programs may be necessary. This pivotal meeting is expected to yield more detailed guidelines by August or September, detailing how these medications will fit into comprehensive chronic care models that integrate both clinical approaches and lifestyle interventions.

A thoughtful perspective from three high-ranking WHO officials, published in JAMA last December, underlines that while medications like Wegovy and Zepbound are seen as transformative tools against the obesity epidemic, relying solely on these drugs may not suffice to tackle the issue effectively. They stress the importance of ensuring universally accessible services that comprehensively prevent, treat, and manage obesity in a manner that is both affordable and sustainable.

As the WHO moves closer to this decision, the world watches with bated breath. Will these medications become the game-changer we need in the fight against obesity? Only time will tell.