Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease in which mucus accumulates in the lungs, digestive tract and other parts of the body, resulting in a persistent cough, shortness of breath, frequent chest infections and weight loss. Alberta’s government recognizes the challenges that Albertans with cystic fibrosis and their families face, and the importance of timely access to innovative therapies like Trikafta.
Alberta was among the first provinces to provide this innovative therapy in 2021, listing Trikafta for the treatment of cystic fibrosis in patients 12 years and older. The province provided broader access to meet the specific needs of Albertans living with cystic fibrosis and provide those at risk of decreased lung function with access as quickly as possible.
The province was also among the first to expand access to children aged six to 11 years in 2022, following Health Canada approval for children in that age group.
Now, Alberta is providing broader access to Trikafta for children aged two to five after Health Canada approved the expanded use on Oct. 16.
“We know that innovative, effective medications can enhance the well-being of Albertans living with cystic fibrosis. This medication has helped many individuals, and now more children can benefit from the improved health and quality of life provided by this treatment.”
According to Cystic Fibrosis Canada, about 40 young Albertans with the F508 gene meet the medical criteria for Trikafta and are eligible for this medication.
“Alberta was one of the first provinces to fund Trikafta for both the six years and older and 12 years and older age groups, and today has continued to recognize the treatment's extraordinary, transformative value by expanding coverage to include children ages two to five years. Starting young children with cystic fibrosis on modulator therapy as early as possible could protect their health and prevent significant structural lung damage from occurring. We celebrate this news alongside our CF community in Alberta, which has worked tirelessly for this day.”
“Receiving Trikafta means that the daily overwhelming worry of helping my child stay healthy can wash away. We have spent years wound so tight and scared of everything, worrying about how daily living impacts his life with cystic fibrosis. We are always in flight or fight mode and the trauma is real and very painful. We won’t have to worry about whether he will be up half the night coughing or that he will need to be in the hospital. Trikafta will allow us to worry less about what the future holds for him and gives hope of knowing he can have a long and healthy life. Trikafta will be a blessing to our whole family.”
Improving the health care provided to Albertans remains a top priority for Alberta’s government, and expanding access to the most innovative and effective medications is crucial as it continues to strengthen the health care system to better serve all Albertans.
Quick facts
- Trikafta was first approved by Health Canada on June 18, 2021, the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health recommended listing the drug on Sept.16, 2021, the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance negotiated an agreement on pricing, and Alberta listed the drug on Sept. 24, 2021.
- The use of Trikafta to treat children six to 11 years of age was approved by Health Canada on April 19, 2022, the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health recommended listing the drug on July 6 and Alberta listed the drug on July 11, 2022.
Related news
- Alberta provides children with access to Trikafta (July 11, 2022)
- Alberta to fund new cystic fibrosis drug (Sept. 24, 2021)