Three children at the Dr. Francisco de Icaza Bustamante Children’s Hospital in Guayaquil have received free treatment with nusinersen, a medication used for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic neuromuscular disease. The initiative was made possible through the actions of the Ecuadorian government and its health system.
The vice president, María José Pinto, has stated that healthcare for children is always a priority.
Nusinersen is among the most expensive medications globally, with a list price of about USD 82,300 per 12 mg vial. A full course of treatment can reach an estimated cost of USD 576,000.
Gabriel Mayner, pediatric neurologist at the hospital, emphasized the clinical impact: “The administration of nusinersen allows us to modify the natural course of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). In many children it is possible to stabilize the disease and even improve their motor abilities, which represents real hope for them and their families,” he said.
Hospital manager Efraín Ubilla added: “Thanks to the management by the National Government and coordinated work within the health system, it was possible to import this highly specialized medication, allowing our pediatric patients timely access to a life-changing treatment.”
This intervention by the Ministry of Public Health demonstrates its commitment to providing specialized care for children in Ecuador and ensuring timely access to innovative therapies.
