‘The Power to Transform Lives’: Alberta to Cover New Cystic Fibrosis Drug Trikafta

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Alberta will be among the first in Canada to fund a new drug approved by Health Canada to treat people living with cystic fibrosis.

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Health Canada approved the use of Trikafta on June 18 for CF patients 12 years of age and older who meet the eligibility criteria, the province announced in a news release Friday. Patients who have at least one F508del mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene, experience decreased lung function, and are optimized with the best supportive care may qualify for access to the drug. Ontario and Saskatchewan also announced They will cover the cost of Trikafta for eligible residents starting October 1.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease in which thick mucus builds up in the lungs, digestive tract, and other parts of the body. Symptoms of cystic fibrosis can include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, frequent chest infections, and weight loss. It can lead to severe breathing problems, malnutrition, and other complications.

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Alberta cystic fibrosis patient Amanda Bartels said in Friday’s press release that she was granted compassionate access to Trikafta in June 2020. She said she is “beyond excited” that Alberta youth living with CF now have a chance to live a healthier life. life thanks to drugs.

“I went from being on oxygen and beginning the double lung transplant process to finally taking a deep breath and fully living my life as an active wife and mother,” said Bartels.

According to Cystic Fibrosis Canada, approximately one in every 3,600 children born in Canada has CF.

The province estimates that the disease affects about 600 Albertans.

“Our community has fought hard for this day and sadly lost many loved ones along the way. We are relieved that Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan have moved forward to secure access to Trikafta. Now, we call on all other provinces to act quickly, ”Cystic Fibrosis Canada Chief Scientific Officer Dr. John Wallenburg said in a statement on Friday.

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“While we are pleased with the news, we must also ensure that access to Trikafta is granted to all eligible individuals as directed by Health Canada. We ask the provinces to follow the guidelines developed by Cystic Fibrosis Canada physicians and provide access to all Canadians living with CF who would benefit from this life-changing treatment. “

The Pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance, a body that negotiates drug prices on behalf of the provinces, negotiated an agreement on the terms of coverage for cystic fibrosis drugs, including Trikafta, Orkambi and Kalydeco.

Cystic Fibrosis Canada advocates that all remaining provinces and territories fund Trikafta under their own public drug programs.

Reference-edmontonjournal.com

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