In 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) has published the 24th Model List of Essential Medicines (EML) and the 10th Essential Medicines List of Children (EMLc) . Such updates encompass new cancer, diabetes, obesity and other significant disease treatments, critical guidance against the 150 plus countries, in the formulation of healthcare policies, procurement and reimbursement systems.
Significance of the EML
The EML first appeared in 1977, and it recognizes the medicines, which address the most immediate health requirements in the world. The lists assist governments to promote access to efficient and affordable medicines. The frequent changes would make them current with the new global health challenges and innovations.
New Additions and Updates
The WHO Expert Committee had looked through a total of 59 applications : 20 medicines were added to the EML and 15 to EMLc . Also, seven medicines were approved to have new therapeutic uses. This update adds 523 adult and 374 pediatric medicines that address cancer, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, haemophilia and psoriasis.
Cancer Medicines
Cancer is one of the most common deadly diseases across the world and it has caused close to 10 million deaths yearly . The Committee accepted only those cancer drugs, which had survival advantages of at least four to six months. The main additions are PD-1/PD-L1 immunomodulators, including pembrolizumab, atezolizumab and cemiplimab in the cases of metastatic cancer. Other health system strategies such as dose optimisation to enhance affordability, particularly in low-resource countries are also emphasized in the update.
Treatment of diabetes and Obesity.
The Committee introduced the contemporary treatments such as GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide) and the dual GLP-1/GIP agonist tirzepatide due to 800 million and 1 billion people with diabetes and obesity respectively . Not only do these drugs enhance the control of blood sugar, but also decreases cardiovascular and kidney risks, aids in weight loss, and decreases mortality among type 2 diabetes patients. Nevertheless, prices are still high, which is why it is necessary to introduce generic competition and wider access.
Problems of Access and Affordability.
Out-of-pocket expenditures are also high regarding the necessary medicines, notably the noncommunicable diseases. WHO demands political engagement, modification of regulations and adoption of generics so that more people can get access.
In May 2025, the 25th WHO Expert Committee in Geneva re-endorsed the EML as an international standard in terms of equitable access to healthcare, and it remained cost-effective, safe, and sustainable.