Sales of GLP-1 weight-loss medicines are rising rapidly in SA, mirroring global trends, but concerns about serious side effects are also growing. – Medical Brief (5 Feb 2026)
More than 4 000 patients have joined legal action against manufacturers, with many reporting gastroparesis or severe gastrointestinal complications, while regulators warn of rare risks such as acute pancreatitis.
Locally, spending on Ozempic has surged in medical scheme data, and Mounjaro has reportedly become the country’s top-selling pharmaceutical product. However, high monthly costs and limited medical scheme coverage restrict access, particularly for weight management, which is not a prescribed minimum benefit.
More affordable generic GLP-1 products are expected to become available on the global market from next year.