London, December 02, 2025
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a global alert warning of a severe shortage of GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines, vital obesity treatments, amid soaring demand and limited supply projected through 2030. This shortage threatens equitable access and public health worldwide.
Global Demand Outpaces Supply
More than one billion individuals live with obesity globally, with projections suggesting this number will double by 2030. Obesity contributes to an estimated 3.7 million deaths in 2024 alone. GLP-1 drugs such as semaglutide and tirzepatide are highly effective treatments now recommended by WHO for long-term management of adult obesity. However, despite increased production efforts, current manufacturing capacity will only meet the needs of fewer than 10% of eligible patients by 2030.
WHO’s Core Concerns
The rapid surge in demand has created a supply crisis, resulting in widespread medicine shortages and lengthy waiting lists. WHO highlights a growing risk that only wealthier populations will access these treatments, exacerbating existing global health inequities. Furthermore, the scarcity has led to an uptick in counterfeit or substandard GLP-1 products, which pose serious safety risks for patients. Health systems globally remain underprepared to implement the large-scale rollout required, while high treatment costs further limit accessibility.
Recommendations to Mitigate the Crisis
To address these challenges, WHO calls for coordinated strategies including pooled procurement and tiered pricing models aimed at expanding equitable access. The organization advocates for voluntary licensing agreements to enable more manufacturers to produce GLP-1 medicines, thus increasing global supply. Strengthened regulatory oversight is urged to combat counterfeit drugs, alongside adopting prioritization frameworks that ensure those with the greatest medical need receive treatment first.
The Importance of Comprehensive Obesity Care
Obesity is increasingly recognized as a chronic disease necessitating lifelong management. While GLP-1 therapies represent a powerful tool for weight loss, WHO emphasizes that medication must be integrated with healthy diets, physical activity, and behavioral support to achieve sustainable outcomes. The ongoing shortage risks undermining global efforts to combat obesity and improving associated health outcomes, potentially leading to worsening public health burdens.
Looking Ahead: WHO’s Acceleration Plan
In 2026, WHO plans to collaborate with countries and stakeholders to develop transparent and fair systems prioritizing access while expanding production capacity. This initiative forms part of the broader Acceleration Plan to Stop Obesity, aiming to bridge the critical gap between escalating demand and limited supply of effective obesity medicines. Without urgent and coordinated action, millions worldwide could face denied or delayed treatment, deepening disparities and impeding progress against this major global health challenge.