Since June 2026, two anti-obesity medications, Wegovy and Mounjaro, have become eligible for reimbursement for certain individuals with obesity in France. These drugs, which are injectable treatments, are available under names like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. They contain a synthetic molecule that mimics GLP-1, a hormone in the intestines that helps regulate appetite and stimulate insulin production. While Ozempic is strictly reserved for people with diabetes, it is sometimes used off-label for weight loss. Wegovy is specifically approved for obesity, while Mounjaro can be prescribed for both diabetes and obesity. Géraldine Skurnik, an endocrinologist at a specialized obesity center in Île-de-France, explains that these drugs work by binding to GLP-1 receptors in the body, creating a prolonged feeling of fullness. However, she cautions that these medications should not be used simply to suppress appetite. Since June 15, Wegovy and Mounjaro have been reimbursed for adults with class 2 or 3 obesity, leading to a surge in requests for coverage. Skurnik notes that the number of patients seeking treatment has increased dramatically, causing delays in her consultations to stretch from four to eight months. Angélique, a mother of three who has both diabetes and obesity, opted against bariatric surgery. In 2025, she weighed around 130 kg and struggled with her health. After trying various diets and working with a nutritionist without success, her doctors prescribed Ozempic in July 2025 and later Mounjaro in June 2026. Though the treatment was covered for her diabetes, it was primarily used to manage her obesity. She lost 29 kg and experienced some initial side effects with Mounjaro, but she now feels significantly better and has encouraged her daughter, who is also severely obese, to consider the medication. Fatima, 49, has experienced more severe side effects since starting Wegovy in mid-June. She reports intestinal issues, heartburn, fatigue, and constant sleepiness. Despite these challenges, she has lost 5 kg and continues the treatment, as previous attempts at diet and exercise failed. However, since her obesity is classified as grade 1, she must pay 147 euros monthly out of pocket, as the medication is not fully reimbursed. These weekly injections are often used long-term and can cost up to 440 euros per month. Valérie, who has been on Wegozy for seven months, says the treatment nearly cost her her life. She experienced severe vomiting after each injection, eventually leading to three days of continuous vomiting and a dangerous drop in potassium levels, requiring emergency care. Though she has lost 30 kg, she now wants to stop the treatment, calling it "a poison." Skurnik emphasizes that these medications are not trivial and require strict criteria for use. She notes that while GLP-1 agonists can be effective, they are a second option if lifestyle changes fail. However, some users have reported serious side effects, including rare vision loss, pancreatitis, or liver pain. While these complications are extremely rare, doctors must warn patients about them. Despite these concerns, Skurnik acknowledges that these treatments represent a significant advancement in the fight against obesity, which affects nearly 18% of the French population. She notes that obesity remains one of the few chronic diseases without full medical coverage, highlighting the need for better treatment options and awareness.