Cystic Fibrosis Medication Approved

A life-extending drug for cystic fibrosis will be available on the NHS in England, health bosses say. NHS England reached a deal with Orkambi manufacturers Vertex Pharmaceuticals after months of talks. Patients should be able to get the drug within 30 days. The drug improves lung function and reduces breathing difficulties and can be given to children as young as two.

The firm wanted to charge £100,000 per patient per year but a compromise has been reached in a confidential deal.

It is understood to involve significantly less than the sum originally asked for. Two other drugs made by Vertex - Symkevi and Kalydeco - will be made available as part of the deal. These also treat cystic fibrosis symptoms. Symkevi is restricted to over 12-year-olds, while Kalydeco can be used from 12 months. The treatments do not work for all patients with cystic fibrosis - only those with certain mutations. It is estimated about half of the 10,000 patients in the UK will benefit from these drugs.

Cystic fibrosis is a life-shortening genetic condition that can cause fatal lung damage. Only about half of those with the condition live to the age of 32. Patients and campaigners have expressed delight at the announcement. Christina Walker said it meant her son, Luis, eight, should be on it by Christmas, calling it the "best present ever". "I can't stop smiling. I'm overwhelmingly happy. It's absolutely wonderful," she said. David Louden, from Carlisle, said the decision would make a "huge difference" to his daughter, Ayda, who has cystic fibrosis. He said the battle to get it had been "demoralising".

"You could see this drug with all its benefits that was just hanging there in the balance, dangling like a carrot in front of you but you couldn't access it."

You can read more on this groundbreaking health story at the Times here.