Several weight-loss medications have surfaced ever since obesity has become a more evident problem, but it is only now that the World Health Organization is stepping in to decide whether the drug should b added to the Essential Medicines List.
Approval of Saxenda
Saxenda, which is the brand name for liraglutide, is an injection that can control the blood sugar levels of people with type 2 diabetes. However, it is also accepted for weight loss, along with proper exercise and diet.
The drug has already been approved by the Food and Drug Administration back in 2014 for adults, and it wasn't until 2020 that it became applicable to weight management for children, as mentioned in Forbes.
Researchers say that there are no medications in the EML specifically for tackling the growing issue of obesity worldwide. There are mineral supplements to help aid with nutritional deficiencies, but the researcher pointed out that obesity kills more people than underweight.
The researchers in question are the three doctors who requested the drug's inclusion in the EML. Given that Saxenda will be coming off patent soon, cheaper or more affordable versions might become available.
There's a chance that the panel might reject the request. Should it get the organization's approval, it could be a new approach to reducing the cases of obesity, as well as be a precedent for Wegovy, a more powerful treatment that's more affordable, according to Reuters.
It's expected that the drug will be met with doubts, seeing as it's a new approach to a condition that the world has struggled with. WHO director of nutrition Francesco Branca said that they believe it is a work in progress.
There are still issues with the cost of liraglutide, which can go up to $1,349 a month. It has also not been used long enough to make the list. Although, it bodes well for the researchers that the WHO is looking at the use of drugs to reduce weight, as mentioned by Branca.
How Effective Is It?
Saxenda, manifactured by Novo Nordisk has already gone through a three-phase trial, which included more than 5,000 participants who were either overweight or obese. Those who used the drug lost 5% to 10% of their weight in 56 weeks compared to those who got the placebo.
A study also showed that the use of liraglutide in children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes over 52 weeks led to a significant reduction in BMI and weight. However, it was also seen that patients regained weight if they stopped the medication.
Several side effects come with the use of Saxenda, such as tiredness, constipation, heartburn, runny nose, cough, sneezing, headache, trouble urinating, or a burning sensation during urination. Some also show rash or redness in the injection site.
There are more severe side effects for some like jaundice, nausea, diarrhea, new or worsening depression, swelling of the eyes, mouth, face, or throat, and thoughts of harming oneself. It is even said that the drug may increase the risk of thyroid cancer.
