WHO recognises Cystic Fibrosis medicines as essential for the first time

A historic decision by the World Health Organization paves the way for wider access to life-changing treatments for Cystic Fibrosis patients.

On 5 September 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced a historic decision. It added for the first time medicines for Cystic Fibrosis (CF) to the List of Essential Medicines for adults and children.

Specifically, the following cystic fibrosis drugs were included in the list: ivacaftor, the triple combination elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor, pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy

The List of Essential Medicines includes treatments that are considered critical to meeting basic health needs worldwide. With the inclusion of treatments for Cystic Fibrosis:

WHO Member States are encouraged to integrate them into national health systems
it is recognised that these treatments are necessary and not optional
new tools and perspectives are created to enhance access and compensation internationally

This decision is a global victory for the cystic fibrosis community. It paves the way for equal access to life-changing treatments for patients and rewards the struggle of patients’ associations internationally.

This decision is both a celebration and a reminder: The fight for Unlimited Breath continues!