10:08 AM EDT, 09/05/2025 (MT Newswires) -- The World Health Organization said Friday it has added Novo Nordisk's ( NVO ) Ozempic and Eli Lilly's ( LLY ) Mounjaro to its list of essential medicines.

The list, which includes drugs for priority health needs of populations, is used in more than 150 countries as a basis for public-sector procurement, medicine supply, health insurance, and reimbursement programs, the WHO said.

The WHO said "diabetes and obesity are two of the most urgent health challenges facing the world today."

Semaglutide, dulaglutide, liraglutide and tirzepatide have been added to the list, the WHO said, adding the drugs are used to lower glucose in adults with diabetes and heart disease or kidney disease and obesity.

The "high prices" of drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide are limiting access, the WHO said, adding that "prioritizing those who would benefit most, encouraging generic competition to drive down prices and making these treatments available in primary care -- especially in underserved areas -- are key to expanding access."

Novo and Eli Lilly ( LLY ) shares were down 1% and 2% in recent trading.

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