Novo Nordisk strengthens commitment to obesity care in the Philippines

Built on more than 100 years of scientific leadership in obesity and diabetes care, global healthcare company Novo Nordisk is reinforcing its commitment to advancing care for people living with obesity in the Philippines, as a new generation of treatments is set to reach Filipino patients.

At the center of this advancement are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, a class of medicines that work by mimicking a natural hormone in the body that helps regulate hunger and blood sugar. These treatments help people feel full longer, reduce cravings, and better manage their appetite, while also improving blood sugar control for those living with diabetes.

This dual benefit marks a significant shift in how obesity and related conditions are treated—not as matters of willpower, but as chronic diseases requiring medical care.

The rise of GLP-1–based treatments represent one of the most important breakthroughs in metabolic health in recent years. These medicines have, over time, demonstrated substantial and sustained weight loss outcomes in clinical studies—bringing obesity treatment closer to the effectiveness of surgical interventions, but in a less invasive form. 

According to the National Library of Medicine, GLP-1 RA medications have revolutionized weight loss and can reduce body weight in obese patients by between 15% and 25% on average after about one year. Their mode of action is to mimic the endogenous GLP-1, an intestinal hormone that regulates glucose metabolism and satiety.

This evolution reflects decades of research into the biology of hunger, hormones, and weight regulation, culminating in therapies that address the root causes of obesity.

“We are entering a new era in obesity care in the country. One that is grounded in science, compassion, and long-term solutions,” said Wei Sun, general manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines. “For many years, people living with obesity have been left with limited options and significant stigma. Today, with advancements in treatments that work with the body’s natural systems, we could transform outcomes for patients across the Philippines.”

Patient safety

As these innovations become more accessible, Novo Nordisk emphasizes the importance of patient safety and proper medical guidance. The company urges patients to seek consultation with qualified healthcare professionals and to use only approved, regulated medicines. 

With the growing global demand for weight management treatments, there has also been a rise in compounded or unregulated versions that may not meet the same standards of quality, safety, and efficacy.

“Patient safety must always come first,” Sun added. “We strongly advise against the use of unapproved or compounded alternatives that bypass strict regulatory processes. These products may pose serious health risks and do not offer the same assurance of safety and effectiveness as approved medicines.”

Novo Nordisk’s efforts in the Philippines go beyond treatment access, focusing on increasing awareness of obesity as a chronic disease, supporting healthcare professionals with updated medical education, and partnering to expand access to safe, evidence-based care.