A new obesity drug, which can reduce body weight by up to four stone, has been approved for use in all EU countries including Ireland.

Wegovy has been approved by the European Medicines Agency for use in adults with obesity who have at least one weight-related complication. It is delivered by weekly injection.

In its clinical trial, the drug was found to affect weight loss of 17% (3-4 stone) in patients who took it every week for a year. However, weight loss is only sustained if the drug is continued in the long-term.

According to obesity specialist at St Vincent’s University Hospital, Prof Carel le Roux, “the unprecedented level of weight loss this medication achieves marks a new era in the treatment of this disease”.

“Wegovy may be a foundation drug that can revolutionise the management of obesity. The drug was found to be safe and well tolerated during trials, with the most common side-effects including mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset,” he explained.

According to GP and obesity specialist, Dr Mick Crotty, it is now known that living with excess weight “is not due to a lack of willpower’.

“It is a real and complex medical issue caused by our genetics, brain, hormones and environment. Our biology resists weight loss and favours weight regain. Wegovy works by treating the subconscious parts of our brain that regulate hunger and fullness. People taking this medication notice a reduction in appetite and feel more satisfied,” he noted.

Approval by the EMA was based on a clinical development programme involving 4,500 adults with obesity worldwide. All trials showed double digit weight loss with the majority losing an average of three stone. Participants were also noted to have recorded improvements in blood pressure, to have a lower risk of heart attack and an 80% reduction in the development of diabetes.

Obesity affects over one million people in Ireland and is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes, which currently affects over 200,000 people here. Treatment for type 2 diabetes and its complications currently accounts for more than 10% of the overall healthcare budget.