The World Health Organization (WHO) recently updated its essential medicines list to include drugs for obesity and diabetes. This list now features a total of 523 medicines for adults and 374 for children, emphasizing the importance of making effective treatments available worldwide.
The WHO highlighted the need for affordable generic versions of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs. These medicines, such as Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic and Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro, are primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes but have gained popularity as weight-loss options. However, the WHO stopped short of recommending them solely for obesity treatment, focusing instead on their use alongside other health issues, such as cardiovascular disease or chronic kidney disease.
Yukiko Nakatani, WHO’s assistant director-general, stated this update is a key move towards improving access to crucial medicines that can significantly benefit public health. It comes at a time when more than 800 million people globally live with diabetes, and over a billion struggle with obesity. In fact, in 2021 alone, conditions related to obesity were responsible for over 3.7 million deaths, surpassing fatalities from malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV combined.
The WHO noted that the high price of GLP-1 drugs hampers access for many, especially in developing nations. By promoting the production of generics, the organization aims to make these essential treatments available to those who need them most, particularly as the patents for these medications are expected to expire soon.
Additionally, the list includes Vertex Pharmaceuticals’ Trikafta for cystic fibrosis, which has faced criticism for its cost and accessibility issues. It also features Merck’s Keytruda, a leading cancer immunotherapy used for various cancers, with plans for better access strategies in place.
This update is part of a larger trend where healthcare organizations are focusing on equitable access to essential treatments. Increasingly, public health experts advocate for policies that prioritize affordable healthcare solutions, particularly in less affluent regions. The WHO’s efforts signal a growing recognition of the urgent need for accessible medications in the fight against global health crises.
For further insights, you can check the WHO’s official report [here](https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/the-world-health-organization-model-lists-of-essential-medicines-2025).
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