Ireland Faces Funding Challenges as Weight-Loss Drugs Show Promise, Remain Largely Inaccessible
DUBLIN – Ireland is grappling with how to fund potentially life-changing weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro, as growing evidence of their effectiveness clashes with meaningful cost barriers for patients. While the drugs offer hope for those living with obesity and related conditions,their high price point – upwards of €150 per month for medication alone,in addition to treatment costs – is placing them out of reach for many,and raising questions about equitable access within the healthcare system.
the issue came to light as individuals share their experiences with these medications. One woman, previously treated in a private healthcare setting, discontinued a medication regimen due to the ongoing financial strain, bluntly stating, “I could not afford it [long-term].” All such medications require a lifelong commitment to maintain their benefits.
However, others are finding success. The same woman is now benefiting from Ozempic, prescribed by her GP for both diabetes and obesity. She reports increased energy levels and a noticeable enhancement in her health,stating,”It just works. You don’t feel as hungry or as snackish as before… I don’t weigh myself but I am much healthier. I can feel it.” Her average blood sugar levels have already dropped from 48 to 43.
The demand for these drugs is underscored by national health statistics: 56% of the Irish population is currently living with obesity or is overweight, according to the latest figures from the Department of Health.
Susie Birney, executive director for the Irish Coalition for People Living with Obesity, highlights the complexity of the situation. “There is a huge lack of education about these,” she said, adding that the medications are not a universal solution, only suiting approximately 35% of patients and potentially causing adverse reactions in others depending on their genetic makeup. she also cautioned against sensationalized descriptions like labeling Mounjaro as “the King Kong of weight loss drugs,” emphasizing the variability of individual responses.
Birney stressed the broader health benefits of addressing obesity, stating, “If you treat obesity, you effectively prevent other cardiorenal metabolic diseases.” however, she also noted a concerning trend: individuals are actively seeking lower-cost options outside of the public healthcare system, sharing information within support groups.
“We need good regulation, but hopefully we will see the prices come down,” birney stated, encapsulating the core challenge facing Ireland as it navigates the potential of these new therapies and strives to make them accessible to those who could benefit most. The current lack of public funding and high costs are creating a two-tiered system,leaving many with obesity unable to access potentially transformative treatment.
