Saskatchewan expands treatment coverage for ALS patients

The province is now offering two new treatments for a fatal neurodegenerative disease under the Saskatchewan Drug Plan.

About 3,000 Canadians live with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a disease that causes patients to rapidly lose the ability to speak and move.

Two more treatments meant to extend an improved quality of life for eligible patients are now covered under the Government of Saskatchewan’s publicly funded drug plan.

As of Friday, eligible ALS patients meeting certain medical criteria can be considered for coverage of Albrozia and the oral suspension of Radicava under the Saskatchewan Drug Plan.

“Providing patients living with ALS additional treatment options is crucial, given the speed at which this disease progresses,” Minister of Health Everett Hindley said in a release.

“Including these medications on the Saskatchewan Formulary gives patients access to potentially life-changing treatments.”

The two medications can help slow the rate at which the disease progresses — delaying the impact on a patient’s daily routine and loss of essential functions like swallowing and breathing.

The province previously expanded ALS treatment options in June 2020 to include Radicava.

Denis Simard, the executive director of the ALS Society of Saskatchewan, thanked the province for the new coverage.

“Anything that can help those living with ALS hold on to a quality of life for a longer period of time makes a big difference,” Simard said.

Patients who think they may be eligible are encouraged to speak with a physician.