Essential medicines : Essential medicines are those that satisfy the priority health care need of the population. Essential medicines satisfy the needs of the majority of the population and therefore should be available at all times; in adequate amounts, dosage forms and at affordable price. The original 1977 WHO definition of essential medicines was that they were "of utmost importance, basic, indispensable,and necessary for the healthcare needs of population." Selection Criteria: Essential medicines are selected with regard to • disease prevalence • efficacy and safety • cost-effectiveness Purpose : These are intended to be available within healthcare system at all times, in adequate amounts, in appropriate dosage forms, with assured quality and at reasonable price. History: • 1977 first World Health Organization's Model List of Essential Medicines, revised every two years. • 25 years later modern concept is seen • 156 developing countries have nat...
