Parents urge FDA to restore gene therapy after distribution pause
Share this @internewscast.com


() An Illinois family is urging the Food and Drug Administration to restore access to Sarepta Therapeutics’ Elevidys, the only FDA-approved treatment for Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy.

Two of Alison and William Small’s three sons, Hunter and Noah, are diagnosed with Duchenne’s. Noah, 9, received the treatment in March. After three months of close monitoring and with no complications, the family said he’s made progress, including being able to swim and ride a bike.

But a recent FDA investigation has paused further distribution of Elevidys, following reports of at least three patient deaths, including an 8-year-old boy who died June 7 in Brazil.

The FDA said the deaths appear to have been a result of acute liver failure in those treated with Elevidys. However, Roche, which markets the drug outside the U.S. in partnership with Sarepta, confirmed the boy who died in Brazil was not enrolled in a clinical trial.

Sarepta voluntarily and temporarily halted distribution on July 22 to allow time to address FDA safety labeling updates and respond to regulatory inquiries.

‘We’re looking for clarity and transparency’: Father

The Smalls had been working through the insurance approval process for their 10-year-old son, Hunter, to receive the same treatment. That process is now on hold.

Speaking to ‘s “Morning in America” on Monday, the Smalls called for transparency and a clear path forward from federal regulators. They said families affected by Duchenne’s deserve to understand the risks and that many believe the treatment is worth fighting for.

“Whether it’s through the administration or working with the FDA, what we’re looking for is some clarity and transparency … especially talking to the DMD community and families to understand where the risks are, why we believe this drug is worth fighting for and worth dosing to our son and the sons of other people in the community,” William Small said.

The family’s personal connection to Duchenne’s led them to establish the Small Heroes Foundation, which supports families affected by the disease. They’re now among a growing group of advocates calling on federal regulators to allow continued access to Elevidys for families who are willing to accept the risks.

Neither the FDA nor Sarepta has provided a timeline for when the pause may be lifted.

What is Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy?

Duchenne’s is a rare genetic condition that primarily affects boys, causing progressive muscle degeneration and premature death, according to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. It occurs in 1 in 3,500 to 5,000 male births.

Without treatment, most patients lose the ability to walk in their early teens and often do not survive into adulthood.

Elevidys is the only gene therapy approved by the FDA for the treatment of this disease.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Breaking News: Military Coup Unfolds in Benin as Soldiers Seize TV Airwaves

COTONOU – In a dramatic turn of events, a faction of soldiers…

Hegseth Unveils New ‘America-First’ Approach to National Defense Strategy

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered a powerful address at the Reagan National…

Revitalization of Downtown Kingsport: Former JCPenney to Transform into Indoor Pickleball Hub

In an exciting development for Kingsport, Tennessee, plans are underway to transform…

Holly Hill Police Alert Public to Emerging Threats as AI Facilitates New Tactics for Online Predators

HOLLY HILL, Fla. – The police chief of Holly Hill, Byron Williams,…

Spread Holiday Joy: Johnia Berry Toy Drive Brings Christmas Cheer to the Community

In a heartwarming gesture that has become a cherished tradition, the Johnia…

La Scala Opens Season with Russian Opera, Prioritizing Art Over Politics

Milan’s legendary Teatro alla Scala is set to launch its gala season…

Preserving History: Innovative Ways to Remember Pearl Harbor as Survivor Numbers Dwindle

HONOLULU – Each year, the anniversary of the 1941 Japanese attack on…

Stolen Vehicle Chase Ends in Crash: Two Arrested and Injuries Reported by THP

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) has announced…

Hong Kong Holds Legislative Election Following Tragic Fire Incident

HONG KONG – Residents of Hong Kong are heading to the polls…

Florida Official Advises Phasing Out Old Registration Decals for Streamlined System

ORLANDO, Fla. – In a push towards modernization, a Florida official is…

Orlando Runner Fatally Struck on Orange County Road, Reports Florida Highway Patrol

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – A tragic incident unfolded late Saturday night as…

Experience the Magic: Kingsport’s Annual Christmas Parade Shines with 124 Festive Participants

The Kingsport Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony lit up the night…