The Cabinet of Ministers decided to expand the National List of Essential Medicines by adding to it 27 more drugs recommended by the World Health Organization. This was reported by the Prime Minister of Ukraine, Yulia Svyrydenko.
The updated list includes drugs for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, dyslipidemia, pathologies of the endocrine system, mental disorders, as well as antifungal agents. Modern drugs for the therapy of arterial hypertension and heart failure, including ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), have been added to it. They contribute to the reduction and control of blood pressure, reduce the load on the heart and the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Now perindopril, lisinopril, ramipril and their combinations with amlodipine will become more accessible. Also added are candesartan, telmisartan, valsartan, irbesartan and olmesartan medoxomil, which help maintain stable blood pressure and improve prognosis for patients with chronic cardiovascular disease.
In addition, the availability of atorvastatin with a wide range of doses has been expanded, which allows for individual selection of therapy depending on the risk category. Caspofungin (lyophilisate/powder for infusions) is included in the list for inpatient treatment of severe invasive mycosis. Additionally, octreotide (in doses of 0.05, 0.1, 0.5 mg/ml) was introduced for the treatment of acromegaly, and the dose range of olanzapine was extended to +2.5 mg for more accurate titration in the treatment of psychotic and bipolar disorders.
“The next step will be their inclusion in the “Affordable Medicines” program in 2026. This will expand patients’ access to modern and safe medications in the treatment of the most common diseases and bring Ukrainian treatment standards closer to international ones,” Svyridenko stressed.
The national list of essential medicines is coordinated with the preparation for the launch of the National Health Screening program, thanks to which all Ukrainians over the age of 40 will be able to undergo preventive medical examinations free of charge.
