KUWAIT: In partnership with the Ministry of Health, Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa Commercial Co (AAW), and the Swiss multinational healthcare company Roche, announced today the successful registration and introduction of Elevidys to Kuwait, the first approved disease-modifying therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a rare genetic muscle-wasting disease. This achievement is part of the ongoing collaboration between the parties that aims to bring the latest advancements and cutting-edge therapies to Kuwait’s healthcare sector, address unmet medical needs, and improve the quality of life for patients in the country.

Elevidys is designed to address the underlying cause of Duchenne. It targets skeletal, respiratory, and cardiac muscle expression of shortened dystrophin. The innovative therapy is a one-time treatment administered through a single intravenous dose, and represents a significant milestone in the field of Duchenne muscular dystrophy treatment, providing a convenient and effective solution for patients in Kuwait.

Kuwait Medical Genetics Centre Clinical Genetics Specialist, Dr Hadeel Alrohaif, said, “As healthcare providers dedicated to serving patients with rare genetic disorders, we are thrilled about the registration of Elevidys as a potential treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This milestone directly targets the genetic cause of the condition, adding hope for improved outcomes. The registration of Elevidys in Kuwait is a crucial step in our efforts to enhance the lives of DMD patients. We eagerly anticipate its positive impact on their well-being and quality of life.”

Adan Hospital Consultant Pediatric Neurologist and Head of Pediatric Neurology, Dr Sara Alenezi, said, “Kuwait’s swift registration of DMD gene therapy ahead of developed countries is a testament to the dedication to pediatric care. It demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing the urgent needs of children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, setting a commendable example for other nations in improving outcomes for pediatric patients worldwide.”

Roche Country Manager, Ahmed Tawfik, stated, “Roche is proud to collaborate with the Kuwait Ministry of Health and AAW in serving patients with DMD and all patients in Kuwait. Our shared commitment to improving healthcare and providing innovative solutions drives us to work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of patients.” AAW CEO and Chairman, Faisal Al Mutawa said, “Our partnership with Roche for over 70 years and our commitment to the Kuwait healthcare community has made us pioneers in leading Kuwait’s healthcare landscape and introducing innovative medications.

The swift registration of Elevidys is a great example of our excellent cooperation with the regulatory authority at the Ministry of Health, and our commitment to enhancing patient care and providing access to innovative treatment for every patient in Kuwait.” Roche is a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, focused on advancing science to improve people’s lives. It is the world’s largest biotech company, with truly differentiated medicines in oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology and diseases of the central nervous system.

AAW is one of the largest trading and commercial companies in Kuwait and operates in multiple consumer, pharmaceutical, and retail sectors. The company’s pharmaceutical division is one of the company’s oldest divisions with operations spanning over 70 years and a portfolio of global products from global pharmaceutical companies, such as Roche. It is also one of the major suppliers to the Ministry of Health, hospitals and pharmacies in Kuwait.