Major Update to Essential Medicines Lists
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated editions of its Model List of Essential Medicines (EML) and Essential Medicines for Children (EMLc), adding new treatments for cancer, diabetes, obesity, and other chronic conditions. The revisions mark the 24th edition of the EML and the 10th edition of the EMLc, reflecting global health priorities and guiding procurement and insurance coverage in over 150 countries.
In total, the lists now include 523 medicines for adults and 374 for children. This year’s update adds 20 medicines to the EML and 15 to the EMLc, with expanded indications for seven already-listed treatments. These additions are intended to improve access to high-impact therapies in both high- and low-income countries.
Cancer Treatments with Proven Benefit
Cancer remains the second leading cause of death worldwide, with nearly 10 million annual fatalities. The WHO Expert Committee has approved the inclusion of several immune checkpoint inhibitors (PD-1/PD-L1 therapies), which have demonstrated significant survival benefits.
Among the additions is pembrolizumab, now listed for first-line treatment of metastatic cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer. Atezolizumab and cemiplimab were added as therapeutic alternatives. These drugs, though costly, were selected due to their capacity to extend survival by at least 4–6 months, meeting WHO’s strict evidence-based criteria.
New Options for Diabetes and Obesity
The update also tackles two of the world’s fastest-growing health crises: diabetes and obesity. More than 800 million people live with diabetes, while over 1 billion are affected by obesity. WHO has added GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, dulaglutide, liraglutide) and the dual GLP-1/GIP agonist tirzepatide to its essential list.
These medicines are recommended for adults with type 2 diabetes and obesity who also have heart or kidney disease. They help lower blood sugar, reduce cardiovascular risks, support weight loss, and may decrease early mortality. However, their high cost remains a major barrier. WHO is pushing for strategies to improve affordability through generic competition and primary care access.
Other Additions and Policy Implications
Beyond cancer and diabetes, the new lists include therapies for cystic fibrosis, haemophilia, psoriasis, and blood-related disorders. The Committee also emphasized reforms such as dose optimization to make treatments more accessible, particularly in resource-limited settings.
WHO officials stressed that expanding access requires coordinated health system responses, fair pricing strategies, and strong political will. According to Deusdedit Mubangizi, WHO’s Director of Policy and Standards for Medicines and Health Products, achieving equitable access to essential medicines requires multisectoral cooperation and people-centered programs that leave no one behind.