Ebn Sina Medical launches weight loss drug in Qatar

Ebn Sina Medical, a subsidiary of Aamal Company, and Danish healthcare major Novo Nordisk have launched the weight loss prescription medicine Wegovy (Semaglutide 2.4mg) in Qatar, marking a medical milestone in the country’s fight against obesity.
Wegovy is described as the first and only once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) approved for chronic weight management in adults and adolescents ages 12 years and above.
Obesity has emerged as a significant global epidemic, affecting approximately 1bn individuals world-wide. Obesity in the Gulf is rapidly unfolding with the highest rates globally.
Addressing a press conference in Doha yesterday, Aamal Company CEO Rashid bin Ali al-Mansoori said: “This achievement reflects Aamal Company’s commitment to bringing the latest innovation to the market whether through our diverse business or in collaboration with global leaders such as Novo Nordisk.
Al-Mansoori underlined Aamal Company’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge medical solutions to the Qatari market, aligning with the country’s National Health Strategy and Vision 2030.
He also underscored the collaborative nature of this initiative, stressing the role of partnerships in delivering world-class healthcare to Qatar.
In a press statement, Ebn Sina Medical noted that 41% of adults in Qatar are obese, a figure that rises to 46% among women. The consequences of this widespread obesity are far-reaching, contributing significantly to the prevalence of chronic conditions such as pre-diabetes, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
According to Ebn Sina Medical, the active ingredient in Wegovy, Semaglutide 2.4mg, functions by mimicking the effects of a natural hormone, thus reducing hunger and increasing the feeling of fullness, which can lead to decreased calorie intake and subsequent weight loss.
It is indicated for use as an aide to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight who also have at least one weight-related comorbidity. Clinical research has shown promising results, with Wegovy, when combined with lifestyle modifications, leading to an average of 17% weight loss sustained over a two-year period, the statement added. In addition, around one-third of patients experienced a reduction of at least 20% in their body weight. The medication has also demonstrated significant improvements in other cardiometabolic risk factors, including waist circumference, blood pressure, lipid profile, and glycaemic parameters.
Anders Bjorn Hansen, ambassador of Denmark to the UAE and Qatar, lauded the collaboration and innovation driving this initiative. He highlighted Denmark’s commitment to public health, underpinned by a culture of trust and a strong focus on prevention.
He also cited Novo Nordisk’s pivotal role in the life sciences ecosystem, developing innovative medicines for chronic diseases.
Novo Nordisk Qatar general manager Manvendra Singh acknowledged the critical nature of their collaboration with Ebn Sina in improving patient outcomes through innovative, science-driven solutions, particularly in light of Qatar’s high rates of obesity, diabetes, and CVD.
While Wegovy is currently available out-of-pocket for the private market, Singh said that coverage is provided for Qatari patients at Hamad Medical Corporation.
For those seeking the medication through private hospitals and clinics, or for non-Qatari nationals, monthly costs range from QR796 to QR1,909, depending on the dosage.
Ebn Sina Medical’s commercial director Dr Nayla Mansour highlighted the company’s commitment to enhancing healthcare access and improving patient outcomes across Qatar. She pointed out that obesity is a pressing health challenge impacting individuals, families, and the broader healthcare system, and stressed the importance of equitable access to effective treatment options.
Prof Usama ALAlami, head of Medical at Novo Nordisk Qatar, emphasised the link between obesity and other health complications, including diabetes and CVDs.
He cited data indicating that Semaglutide 2.4mg could help prevent type 2 diabetes in high-risk individuals.