WHO Lists Diabetes Drugs as Essential, Indian Firms Prepare for GLP-1 Generics Amid Patent Expirations

The World Health Organization (WHO) has added GLP-1 drugs for type 2 diabetes to its Essential Medicines List, expanding global access to these high-cost therapies. The move comes as Indian pharmaceutical companies prepare to launch generics amid surging demand and patent expirations. The WHO emphasized that the listing does not extend to obesity treatment alone but provides clear guidance on patients who stand to benefit most. Globally, over 800 million people live with diabetes, while obesity affects more than a billion.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expanded global access to GLP-1 drugs for type 2 diabetes by adding them to its Essential Medicines List. This move is part of the WHO's ongoing efforts to improve healthcare accessibility, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The inclusion of these drugs, which are currently under the brand names Ozempic (Novo Nordisk) and Mounjaro (Eli Lilly), aims to provide clearer guidelines for patient eligibility and encourage the production of affordable generics [1].

GLP-1 drugs, initially developed for diabetes, have also gained popularity as weight-loss treatments. However, the WHO has emphasized that the listing does not extend to obesity treatment alone. Instead, it provides clear guidance on patients with type 2 diabetes who also have established cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, or obesity. The WHO expects this inclusion to act as a catalyst for broader access, especially in regions where these drugs are currently unaffordable [1].

Globally, over 800 million people live with diabetes, while obesity affects more than a billion. The high prices of these drugs have long been a barrier to access, particularly in developing countries. The WHO's decision to include GLP-1 drugs on the essential list is expected to encourage generic manufacturers to produce these medications as patents begin to expire next year. This could significantly reduce the cost of treatment and improve access for millions of people [1].

In India, the inclusion of these drugs has sparked significant interest among pharmaceutical companies. Indian firms such as Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Cipla, Sun Pharma, and Mankind Pharma are preparing to launch affordable generics. The expiration of semaglutide patents in March 2026 has led to substantial investment in peptide manufacturing and regulatory alignment. This surge in demand is also driving the expansion of India's peptide ecosystem, with contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) and device makers increasing production capacities [2].

The WHO's decision to add GLP-1 drugs to its Essential Medicines List is a significant step towards improving global health equity. By encouraging the production of generics and providing clear guidelines for patient eligibility, the WHO is helping to overcome the barriers that have long prevented many people from accessing these life-saving treatments. The move is expected to have a profound impact on the Indian pharmaceutical market and position the country as a hub for global GLP-1 drug production [2].

References:
[1] https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/who-adds-glp-1-drugs-diabetes-others-essential-medicines-list-2025-09-05/
[2] https://www.business-standard.com/health/who-adds-glp1-diabetes-drugs-to-essential-medicines-list-india-gears-up-for-generics-125090501308_1.html