The World Health Organization has updated its Model List of Essential Medicines (EML) – a key global policy tool that guides countries in deciding which medicines should be prioritised for universal access within health systems.
The report of the 25th WHO Expert Committee on Selection and Use of Essential Medicines outlines important updates concerning essential diabetes medicines.
GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, dulaglutide and liraglutide) and GIP/GLP-1 (tirzepatide) are now included for adults living with type 2 diabetes (T2D) who also experience cardiovascular disease (CVD), kidney disease (CKD) or obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²).
These medicines have broad benefits such as lowering blood glucose, reducing cardiovascular events lowering mortality risk and promote weight loss. Given the financial implications of their inclusion, the committee recommends targeting, in the first instance, those who stand to benefit the most. Not only is there a strong relationship between T2D, CVD, CKD and obesity, systematic reviews consistently show those living T2D with these comorbidities are likely to experience greater health benefits from GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 medicines compared to those not experiencing these comorbidities.
Rapid-acting insulin analogues have also been added. Alongside long-acting insulins, this supports basal-bolus regimens for T2D and remains essential for people living with T1D.
Their inclusion also responds to the progressive withdrawal of regular human insulin from markets. By enlarging the number of insulin products on the EML and complementing existing listings, this inclusion aims to stabilise prices, strengthen supply chains, and reduce risks of shortage.
The Committee calls for commitment and action from WHO, Member States, insulin producers, procurement agencies and other stakeholders to achieveing equitableachieve equitable and affordable access to insulin globally.
Why this matters: providing recommendations for therapeutic alternatives, WHO hopes to foster competition, accelerate the introduction of biosimilar formulations, and support governments in negotiating lower medicine prices. This will allow health systems to select the best-value options and expand equitable access worldwide.
Better access to life-saving diabetes medicines equals fewer complications, more equitable care, and improved quality of life.
