KUWAIT CITY, June 23: In collaboration 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. Elevidys is the first approved disease-modifying therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a rare genetic muscle-wasting disease. This milestone is part of the ongoing partnership aimed at bringing cutting-edge therapies to Kuwait’s healthcare sector, addressing unmet medical needs, and improving the quality of life for patients.

Target

Elevidys is designed to address the underlying cause of Duchenne by targeting the skeletal, respiratory, and cardiac muscle expression of shortened dystrophin. This innovative therapy, administered as a one-time intravenous dose, marks a significant advancement in the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Dr. Hadeel Alrohaif, Clinical Genetics Specialist at Kuwait Medical Genetics Centre, expressed enthusiasm: “As healthcare providers dedicated to rare genetic disorders, we are thrilled about the registration of Elevidys as a potential treatment for DMD. This milestone directly targets the genetic cause, adding hope for improved outcomes. We eagerly anticipate its positive impact on the well-being and quality of life of DMD patients in Kuwait.”

Dr. Sara Alenezi, Consultant Pediatric Neurologist and Head of Pediatric Neurology at Adan Hospital, highlighted Kuwait’s proactive approach: “Kuwait’s swift registration of DMD gene therapy ahead of developed countries showcases our dedication to pediatric care. It sets a commendable example for improving outcomes for pediatric patients worldwide.”

Collaboration

Ahmed Tawfik, Roche Country Manager, 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, Mr. Faisal Al Mutawa, added, “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. The swift registration of Elevidys exemplifies our excellent cooperation with the regulatory authority at the Ministry of Health and our dedication to enhancing patient care and providing access to innovative treatments.”

Improve

Roche is a global leader in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, focused on advancing science to improve lives. It is the world’s largest biotech company, offering differentiated medicines in oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology, and diseases of the central nervous system. AAW is one of Kuwait’s largest trading and commercial companies, operating in multiple sectors including consumer, pharmaceutical, and retail. The pharmaceutical division, one of AAW’s oldest, has a 70-year history of collaborating with global pharmaceutical companies like Roche. As a major supplier to the Ministry of Health, hospitals, and pharmacies in Kuwait, AAW continues to play a crucial role in the nation’s healthcare system.