The World Health Organization (WHO) has unveiled the latest versions of its Model Lists of Essential Medicines (EML) and Essential Medicines for Children (EMLc). These updated lists include newly recommended treatments for different types of cancer, as well as for diabetes in patients with related conditions such as obesity. Additionally, the lists now feature medicines for managing cystic fibrosis, psoriasis, haemophilia, and other blood-related disorders.

The EML and EMLc identify medications considered essential for meeting key health care needs around the world. Adopted by more than 150 countries, they support decisions in public medicine supply, procurement, and health insurance coverage. This recent update marks the 24th edition of the EML and the 10th edition of the EMLc.

“These updated essential medicines lists are a major step forward in making innovative and effective treatments more widely accessible,” said Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO’s Assistant Director-General for Health Systems, Access, and Data.

Since their initial publication in 1977, the WHO's Model Lists have been a guiding resource used to improve global access to vital medicines, particularly in less-resourced settings. They help steer global decisions on treatment priorities across health systems.

During the review process, the WHO Expert Committee on the Selection and Use of Essential Medicines analyzed 59 applications. These included 31 proposals to add new medicines or entire new groups of medications. Based on this review, 20 new medicines were added to the EML and 15 to the EMLc. The Committee also approved new use indications for seven existing entries. The updated lists now feature 523 medicines for adults and 374 for children, addressing critical public health needs.

Cancer Medicines

Cancer is the world’s second leading cause of death, claiming nearly 10 million lives annually. It also accounts for about one-third of premature deaths related to noncommunicable diseases. For over ten years, WHO has focused on including the most impactful cancer medicines in its EML. Because oncology drugs now make up around half of new approvals by regulatory bodies, the Expert Committee applies strict standards, including the requirement that new medicines demonstrate survival benefits of at least 4 to 6 months.

The Committee reviewed seven proposals covering 25 different cancer medications. To address disparities in cancer treatment access, it supported adding PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors, which enable the immune system to better detect and destroy cancer cells. Pembrolizumab was included as a frontline treatment for advanced cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer. Atezolizumab and cemiplimab were also listed as alternatives for lung cancer treatment.

In addition to listing new drugs, the Committee endorsed several expert-recommended actions to improve cancer medicine accessibility. These include optimizing dosage and using evidence-based clinical strategies. While broader system reforms will take time and governmental coordination, the Committee emphasized that clinical improvements can yield faster results, especially in low-resource settings.

Diabetes and Obesity Medicines

Diabetes and obesity pose some of the biggest health threats worldwide. As of 2022, more than 800 million individuals were living with diabetes, with many cases going untreated. Obesity now affects over 1 billion people globally and is increasing rapidly in lower-income regions. These conditions are interrelated and significantly raise the risk of heart disease and kidney complications.

The Committee reviewed strong clinical data supporting the use of a group of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These drugs have shown benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes, especially those who also suffer from cardiovascular or kidney conditions, by improving blood sugar levels, aiding in weight reduction, and reducing mortality and disease progression.

The EML now includes GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide, dulaglutide, and liraglutide, along with tirzepatide, a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. These medications are recommended for adults with type 2 diabetes who have established cardiovascular disease or chronic kidney disease, and for individuals with obesity, defined as a BMI of 30 or higher. These recommendations are meant to help countries identify patients who are likely to benefit most.

However, the high cost of drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide remains a barrier to widespread access. Expanding availability through price reductions, encouraging the production of generics, and integrating care for these conditions into primary health services—particularly in underserved communities—are seen as essential steps. WHO will continue to monitor progress, promote fair pricing, and support access to these treatments.

“A significant portion of what people pay out-of-pocket for chronic diseases goes toward medications—even those considered essential—which should be affordable and accessible to everyone,” stated Deusdedit Mubangizi, WHO’s Director of Policy and Standards for Medicines and Health Products. “Ensuring fair access to essential treatments takes coordinated action, strong political commitment, and inclusive health programs that serve all populations.”

Further details on the Committee's recommendations, including newly added items and revisions, are summarized in the Executive Summary.

Note to Editors

The 25th meeting of the WHO Expert Committee on the Selection and Use of Essential Medicines was held at WHO Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, from 5 to 9 May 2025. The Committee considered 59 applications, carefully evaluating the clinical efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of the proposed treatments. The meeting also reviewed updates to the AWaRe classification of antibiotics (Access, Watch, Reserve).

The Model Lists are updated biannually by an international group of recognized experts in medicine, pharmacy, and research. Their goal is to help health systems tackle existing and emerging medical challenges, encourage use of proven treatments, and make essential medicines more affordable and accessible worldwide.