WHO 15th EML
WHO has just published the 15th Essential Medicines List (EML). This is the 15th edition of the list in 30 years.
/arrow_news.gif) View the 15th EML here.
Even though the EML does include some formulations for children, it is predominantly for adults. The majority of medications worldwide are not formulated for easy and accurate administration to children.
The WHO is currently working on a paediatric essential medicines list specifically tailored to children's needs. A group of experts will meet in July 2007 to produce the first international list.
Children suffer from the same illnesses as adults but they are more seriously affected by certain conditions such as respiratory tract infections, malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoeal diseases; particularly in developing countries. An estimated 10 million children under five every year, many from these treatable conditions.
Medicines for these illnesses exist, but paediatric formulations and knowledge on use for children are often lacking.
This highly calls for a comprehensive effort to improve medicines for children and make them available in the right dosage and form.
View WHO's note for the media regarding the paediatric medicines list here.
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The WHO List of Essential Medicines provides a model for countries to select medicines addressing public health priorities according to quality, safety and efficacy standards. It helps governments address problems of cost and availability and provides guidance to the pharmaceutical industry on medicines needs globally.
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Source: WHO
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