- Biogen Canada welcomed a draft recommendation from Canada’s Drug Agency (CDA) supporting expanded public reimbursement of Spinraza (nusinersen) for Canadians with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), including adults and patients historically facing access barriers.
- The recommendation supports coverage for patients with genetically confirmed 5q SMA and two, three or four SMN2 gene copies, subject to certain conditions. Spinraza has been approved in Canada since 2017, but public coverage varies by province and age.
- The reassessment began in March 2026 through CDA’s Formulary Management Expert Committee pilot initiative, which reviews evolving evidence to reconsider reimbursement recommendations for approved treatments.
- Stakeholder feedback is open until October 29, 2026, with a final recommendation expected December 1. Provincial funding decisions are still required before expanded coverage can take effect.
Takeaways:
CDA’s draft recommendation could expand Spinraza’s reimbursed market in Canada by extending coverage to adults and patients with two, three or four SMN2 gene copies, strengthening Biogen’s position in SMA treatment. Broader eligibility could improve access and uptake, but final guidance, provincial funding decisions and reimbursement conditions will determine the commercial impact.
Source: CA Newswire
