SCOTTISH ministers have reached a deal with the manufacturer of a so-called wonder drug for cystic fibrosis, allowing it to be made available on the NHS.
Clinical trials have shown that Kaftrio is life-transforming for 90% of patients with the genetic condition, in which the lungs and digestive system can become clogged with thick, sticky mucus. The drug, produced by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, helps the lungs work more effectively.
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “Cystic fibrosis is an inherited condition which tragically shortens lives and affects around 900 people in Scotland. I am therefore very pleased that a revised pricing agreement has been reached to ensure that Kaftrio, can be made available via the NHS.
“This is a potentially transformational treatment for cystic fibrosis, and I am delighted that patients in Scotland will be among the first in Europe to benefit and lead longer, healthier lives.
“The deal, agreed ahead of a licence being granted by the European Medicines Agency, means cystic fibrosis treatment centres will be able to prescribe the medicine to patients they consider will benefit as soon as the licence is granted in the coming weeks.”
It is estimated that around 800 people with cystic fibrosis in Scotland should be suitable for treatment with the range of medicines that are now available. Campaigners Maggie Gallagher and Marion Ferguson from the Quest for a CF Cure Patient Group said they were “elated” by the news. They said: “The Scottish Government has worked tirelessly over the last few months to secure a deal for the cystic fibrosis community. It really is a dream come true.
“Unfortunately, for some this agreement has come too late and our sympathies and gratitude go to those families who have lost loved ones but have continued to support this cause. We also mindful that 10% of the CF community is unable to have any of these drugs and we urge scientists to keep going so as CF can truly be an illness of the past.”
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