A new class of drugs, glp-1, has particularly promising results in the treatment of obesity.

Semaglutide, developed by the Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, has led to weight loss of about 15% in clinical trials of the drug. The drug is already sold under the brand name Wegovy in America, Denmark and Norway, according to the Economist, and will soon be available in other countries.

Ozempic, the lower dose version, is a diabetes drug but is used “off the shelf” for weight loss. Eli Lilly’s rival glp-1, due out within a year, is even more effective. Analysts believe that the market for glp-1 drugs could reach $150 billion by 2031, moving closer to the current cancer drug market. Some believe these drugs could become as common as beta-blockers or statins.

In 2020, two-fifths of the world’s population is estimated to be either overweight or obese. According to the non-governmental organization, by 2035 this figure could rise by more than 50%, reaching 4 billion people who are overweight or obese. World Obesity Federation. The fastest growing population does not live in the wealthy West, but in places like Egypt, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.

Obesity causes many health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, and has been linked to strokes, gout, and various forms of cancer. Being overweight is also associated with an increased risk of dying from Covid-19.

accidental discovery

New drugs for obesity were discovered by accident when it was noticed that a treatment intended for diabetics caused weight loss. Semaglutide mimics the release of hormones that promote satiety after meals, reducing appetite. They also alleviate the strong desire to eat.

Demand is already high and there is investment interest. Novo Nordisk’s market value doubled in two years to $326 billion, making it the second most valuable pharmaceutical company in the world.

Analysts estimate that by the end of the decade, half of obese Americans seeking help will be taking GLP-1 drugs. But, as with any promising new drug, many for manythere are also uncertainties about safety and high price.

What about side effects?

As noted by The Economist, the potential long-term effects of these drugs are not yet known. At lower doses given for diabetes, side effects such as vomiting and diarrhea were mild. But others may be registered as the drugs are used more widely and at higher doses.