WHO Adds GLP-1 Drugs for Diabetes and Weight Loss to Essential Medicines List
The World Health Organization (WHO) has updated its Model Lists of Essential Medicines (EML) to include the GLP-1 class of drugs, such as semaglutide, for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. This move is expected to lower costs and increase global access to these high-priced medications. The WHO Expert Committee reviewed evidence showing these drugs' effectiveness in glucose lowering and weight reduction. While currently expensive and largely unavailable in low- and middle-income countries, their inclusion in the EML encourages governments to prioritize their procurement and improve affordability for patients.
Key Points
- GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are now recognized as essential for managing type 2 diabetes and associated obesity.
- Inclusion in the WHO EML is a critical step toward making expensive, patented drugs more affordable through global procurement strategies.
- The move addresses the rising global burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which account for a large share of out-of-pocket health spending.
- Experts note that while these drugs have significant benefits for cardio-metabolic health, they are currently out-of-reach for many due to high costs.
Exam Facts
- GLP-1: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists.
- WHO Model Lists of Essential Medicines (EML).
- Examples of GLP-1 drugs: Semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide.
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