Albertans between six and 11 years old can now benefit from treatment with the new cystic fibrosis drug Trikafta, the provincial government announced Monday.
Previously, the drug was available to Albertans 12 years of age and older. But the medication is now approved for use by younger children and covered in Alberta.
“Alberta was among the first provinces and territories to provide older children and adults with access to Trikafta,” said Jason Copping, minister of health.
“Once again, Alberta’s government is leading the way by quickly making this transformative medication available to younger children, giving them the same opportunity to realize an improved quality of life.”
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease in which mucus accumulates in the lungs, digestive tract and other parts of the body. Symptoms of cystic fibrosis may include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, frequent chest infections and weight loss.
The use of Trikafta to treat children from six to 11 was approved by Health Canada on April 19 and recommended for listing by the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health on July 6.
Alberta’s government provided Albertans 12 years of age and older, who meet eligibility criteria, with access to Trikafta in September 2021. After consideration of the needs of Albertans living with cystic fibrosis, the province chose to provide broader access so the majority can receive treatment with the drug.
Kelly Grover, Cystic Fibrosis Canada president and CEO, said this news will “change the trajectory” of the disease and the future for many children in Alberta who live with cystic fibrosis.
“Alberta was one of the first provinces to fund the drug for those 12 years of age and older last year, and has continued to recognize Trikafta’s extraordinary, transformative value by expanding coverage of Trikafta to include children ages six to 11. We celebrate this news alongside our CF community in Alberta, which has worked tirelessly for this day,” said Grover.
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