Alberta Fourth Province to Expand Access to Spinraza™ for Patients Impacted with Spinal Muscular Atrophy

SMA causes major problems with walking, muscle strength, fine motor skills, and the basic physical functions of breathing, swallowing, and feeding. SPINRAZA™ is a medication that has been described by patients as a “miracle”. Demonstrated improvements include stronger breathing and speech, increased strength and energy, and the ability to perform new actions such as rolling over and sitting or standing up without assistance.

This announcement follows closely on the heels of Ontario’s approval of expanded access, and comes after a concerted effort on the part of rare disease advocacy groups, patients and their families across the country to equalize access.

“We are excited to see the momentum building among our government partners across the country to increase access to treatments that improve the day to day lives of thousands of Canadians,” said Barbara Stead-Coyle, CEO, Muscular Dystrophy Canada. “We will continue working alongside our clients to increase the understanding of our community’s needs on the national stage, ensuring that all Canadians, regardless of geography, have equal access to treatment.”

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