Will the weight loss injection become significantly cheaper? - Semaglutide Could Cost Under $3 Monthly, Expanding Global Access to Life-Saving Treatment

Weight-loss drugs containing semaglutide, such as Wegovy and Ozempic, have surged in popularity for their effectiveness in reducing obesity. Originally designed to treat diabetes, these medications are now in high demand worldwide. Yet their steep costs and limited availability continue to block access for millions who could benefit from them.

The World Health Organization recently classified semaglutide as an essential medicine. Despite this recognition, high prices have kept it out of reach for many patients. In Germany, monthly treatment can cost up to €300, though health insurers are beginning to cover expenses for diabetes and obesity cases.

A new study from the University of Liverpool reveals that production costs for semaglutide injections could fall below $3 (€2.60) per month. This dramatic reduction would be possible in 160 countries where patents have expired or were never filed. These nations collectively account for 69% of people with type 2 diabetes and 84% of those living with obesity globally.

Currently, about 27% of the world's population qualifies for semaglutide-based treatments. Most of these individuals live in low- or middle-income countries, where access remains severely limited. The drug's potential to prevent obesity-related diseases—such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers—is significant, as these conditions cause roughly 3.7 million deaths each year.

High demand has led to supply shortages and soaring prices, often reaching thousands of dollars. Experts argue that lower costs could save lives, much like generic drug programmes for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. However, cheaper medications alone may not solve deeper issues such as food insecurity, poverty, and urbanisation, which drive obesity rates.

The study highlights a clear path to making semaglutide more affordable in many countries. If production costs drop as predicted, millions could gain access to a treatment proven to reduce obesity and related diseases. However, broader efforts would still be needed to tackle the underlying causes of obesity and ensure the drug reaches those who need it most.