WHO Adds GLP-1 Weight-Loss Drugs to Essential Medicines Amid Cost-Effectiveness Gains

The World Health Organization has recommended the inclusion of GLP-1 agonist weight-loss drugs, such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), on its list of essential medicines to improve global access, especially in developing countries. These drugs have gained popularity due to their significant weight loss effects and cardiovascular benefits, outperforming lifestyle changes like diet and exercise in cost-effectiveness, according to recent analyses by the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER). ICER's draft reports highlight substantial price reductions, with annual costs now around $6,830 for semaglutide and approximately $7,973 for tirzepatide, although affordability remains a challenge due to high demand and rising U.S. spending, which reached nearly $72 billion in 2023. Despite some uncertainties about long-term cardiovascular outcomes for tirzepatide, both drugs are considered valuable for reducing obesity-related health risks such as high blood pressure and diabetes. The increasing use of these drugs has prompted calls for coordinated national strategies to ensure affordability and accessibility. Additionally, an oral form of semaglutide shows promise as a cost-effective alternative, though it is currently less economically efficient than injectable versions.