Full Breakdown
WHO Adds GLP-1 Drugs to Essential Medicines List to Enhance Global Access
9/6/2025, 1:56:57 AM
Inclusion of GLP-1 Drugs in Essential Medicines List
On Friday, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the addition of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs, specifically Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic and Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro, to its Essential Medicines List (EML). This decision aims to improve access to these medications, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where high costs have historically limited availability. The EML now includes 523 medicines for adults and 374 for children, serving as a critical reference for public health systems globally.
Background and Context
The WHO's Essential Medicines List, first established in 1977, identifies medications deemed essential for a functioning healthcare system. The list is updated biennially and has been adopted by over 150 countries. The inclusion of GLP-1 drugs is particularly significant given the alarming statistics: over 800 million people worldwide live with diabetes, and more than one billion are affected by obesity. The WHO's decision reflects a growing recognition of the urgent health challenges posed by these conditions.
Official Statements & Responses
Dr. Lorenzo Moja, head of the WHO secretariat overseeing the EML, emphasized that the inclusion of GLP-1 drugs serves as a potential catalyst for improving access. He noted, “Rather than letting price be a disqualifying factor, the committee views inclusion in the essential medicines list as a potential catalyst for access.” The WHO has urged countries to encourage generic competition to lower prices and expand access to these essential treatments.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the positive reception from patient advocates, some criticisms have emerged regarding the WHO's decision not to include GLP-1 drugs for weight loss alone. Critics argue that this limitation may hinder broader access for individuals seeking these medications solely for obesity management. Additionally, the high costs associated with these drugs remain a significant barrier, with reports indicating that GLP-1 medications can be priced as much as 400 times higher than what could be sustainably produced.
Broader Implications
The WHO's decision to add GLP-1 drugs to the EML is expected to have significant implications for public health. By enhancing access to these medications, the WHO aims to improve health outcomes for millions suffering from diabetes and obesity. The agency's focus on encouraging generic production aligns with its mission to ensure that essential medicines are available in all functional health systems.
What's Next
As the patents for some GLP-1 drugs are set to expire soon, the WHO anticipates that generic versions will become available, further driving down costs. The agency plans to continue monitoring the impact of these additions to the EML and will convene for the 25th Expert Committee meeting on Essential Medicines in May 2025 to evaluate further applications and updates.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The new editions of essential medicines lists mark a significant step toward expanding access to new medicines with proven clinical benefits and with high potential for global public health impact.” — Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Health Systems, Access and Data.
- “Achieving equitable access to essential medicines requires a coherent health system response backed by strong political will, multisectoral cooperation, and people-centered programs that leave no one behind.” — Deusdedit Mubangizi, WHO Director of Policy and Standards for Medicines and Health Products.
