Context

World Health Organization (WHO) recently updated its Model Lists of Essential Medicines (EML) to include the GLP-1 receptor agonist class of drugs. This decision is expected to enhance global access, affordability, and availability of these medications.

What are GLP-1 Drugs?

GLP-1 drugs, such as semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound), mimic the action of the natural GLP-1 hormone, regulating blood sugar, insulin response, and hunger. They have proven benefits for obesity management and metabolic health.

Benefits of GLP-1 Drugs

·        Improved Insulin Secretion: GLP-1 drugs stimulate pancreatic glucose release and reduce hepatic glucose production.

·        Cardiovascular and Renal Benefits: These medications have shown to reduce cardiovascular risk and support weight management.

·        Weight Loss Support: GLP-1 drugs help suppress appetite and slow digestion, leading to significant weight loss.

Impact of the WHO Decision:

·        Increased Accessibility: The WHO's decision could lead to better access to these medications, particularly in low-resource settings.

·        Generic Development: The inclusion on the EML may encourage pharmaceutical companies to develop affordable generic versions.

·        Global Recognition: Obesity and diabetes are recognized as serious medical conditions requiring medical solutions, reducing stigma.

About WHO Model Lists of Essential Medicines:

The WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (EML) acts as a global register of minimum medicine needs for every health-care system. It is:

• • Updated every two years by the Expert Committee on Selection and Use of Essential Medicines
  • A guiding document for countries to prioritize safe, effective, and cost-efficient medicines for public health

History of the EML:

• • The first national EML was developed by Tanzania in 1970
  • In 1975, the World Health Assembly asked WHO to help member states identify and procure essential medicines affordably
  • The first WHO EML was published in 1977, listing 186 essential medicines
  • Today, over 150 countries have national essential medicine lists inspired by the WHO model

About Essential Medicines:

• • Satisfy priority health care needs of the population
  • Are chosen based on disease prevalence, efficacy, safety, and comparative cost-effectiveness
  • Should be available in sufficient quantity, affordable, and quality-assured

About World Health Organization (WHO):

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health.

·        Established on April 7, 1948, and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, WHO's primary objective is to ensure the highest possible level of health for all people worldwide.

·        It defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”

Conclusion:

The WHO's inclusion of GLP-1 drugs on the Essential Medicines List marks a significant step towards recognizing obesity and diabetes as serious health conditions requiring medical attention. While challenges persist, this decision paves the way for increased accessibility, affordability, and global recognition of these life-changing medications