Abu Dhabi has announced a new initiative as part of its government-led healthcare program to tackle obesity, introducing a new weight loss pill for eligible patients.
The medication, developed by U.S.-based pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly, is named “FounDayo” (as reported) and will be distributed through a special program under the Abu Dhabi health authorities. With this move, the UAE becomes the second country in the world, after the United States, to approve and offer this advanced treatment.
Currently available weight loss medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy are administered as injections. In contrast, this new drug comes in tablet form, making it more convenient, as it can be taken once daily.
Clinical trials involving 3,127 participants showed promising results. After 72 weeks of use, individuals experienced an average weight loss of up to 12.3 kg.
In addition to reducing body weight, studies indicate that the medication may also help in:
- Lowering cholesterol levels
- Reducing blood pressure
- Decreasing the risk of heart disease
The drug will be provided to eligible patients enrolled in Abu Dhabi’s “Personalized Weight Management” program, through the Imperial College London Diabetes and Endocrine Center. It is specifically intended for individuals suffering from obesity and related health complications.
This initiative comes in response to rising obesity rates in the UAE. According to the Global Obesity Observatory, approximately 26% of men and 30% of women in the UAE are obese, highlighting the urgent need for effective interventions.
