The 24th version of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) List of Essential Medicines (EML) and the 10th version of the WHO List of Essential Medicines for Children (EMLc) were released on September 5th, 2025.
The WHO EML and EMLc are updated every two years and contain medicines that are considered to be the most safe and effective to meet health system and patient needs. The medicines on this list are intended to be available and affordable in all functioning health systems and provide a guide for nations to adapt to their unique contexts.
Dr. Gyawali is 1 of 13 Expert Committee Members, providing insight on whether applications of new medicines should be accepted for inclusion in the EML or not.
Highlights:
- 20 new medicines added to the EML (16 to the core list and 4 to the complementary list).
- 15 new medicines added to the EMLc (12 to the core list and 3 to the complementary list).
- 7 currently listed medicines received expanded indications.
- Deletion of 3 medicines from the EML and 4 from the EMLc.
The WHO Expert Committee met at the WHO Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland in early May to review and evaluate applications to enter the list. This process includes evidence-based assessment of each application, including safety, effectiveness, burden of disease, resources, and feasibility to create a comprehensive list of medicines that offer the best value for the health system and patients.
Dr. Gyawali is the only member of the panel representing Canada and Nepal.
Relevant Links:
Dr. Bishal Gyawali 
Leave a comment