South Korea plans tougher rules to curb weight drug misuse as use of Wegovy and Saxenda rises sharply. Health officials want to stop people from using these drugs for quick weight loss despite known risks.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare said Monday it will classify the drugs as high-risk medications. The new rule falls under the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act. Doctors must now check each patient’s health and medical history before prescribing. Officials say this step will cut unsafe use and protect patients from side effects.
Use of injectable weight-loss drugs has grown fast in recent years. From 2020 to mid-2025, doctors issued over 721,000 Saxenda prescriptions and 395,000 for Wegovy. Novo Nordisk manufactures both drugs. Women made up 71.5 percent of users, mostly in their 30s and 60s.
Experts say the rising numbers highlight serious weight drug misuse. Many young people want fast results, ignoring potential risks. Both drugs mimic a hormone that reduces appetite. However, side effects include nausea, headaches, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
Since 2022, health authorities have logged 1,708 Saxenda-related side effects and 143 for Wegovy. The Korea Institute of Drug Safety and Risk Management continues to track new reports.
Public interest remains strong despite these warnings. A 2024 survey showed that 67 percent of obese respondents wanted Wegovy. Among them, 41 percent hoped to lose more than 20 kilograms.
Officials stressed that the rules will not block legitimate treatments. Instead, they aim to make prescriptions safer and more responsible. The Ministry of Health and Welfare will work with the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety on stronger monitoring.
Health experts called the decision an important move against weight drug misuse. They believe better oversight will encourage safe use and public awareness. As the demand for weight-loss drugs grows, South Korea must balance access and safety.
