Georgia secures lifesaving drugs for children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Georgia’s government has reached an agreement with parents of children suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The deal secures access to vital medicines after months of protests and public campaigning. Parents have now ended their demonstrations and entered what they call a 'work mode' following the latest talks. The breakthrough came after two meetings between officials and families. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze led the discussions, though the agreement did not name the specific drugs covered. Parents had been pushing for four treatments: Elevidys, exon skipping therapy, Givinostat, and Vamorolone.

A working group will now oversee the purchase process, with representatives from the Ministry of Health and parent advocates. The final decision will weigh factors such as cost and proposals from pharmaceutical suppliers. Health Minister Mikheil Sarjveladze confirmed that updates would first go to families before being shared publicly.

Meanwhile, the Ilia Student Movement raised 2 million GEL during the campaign to support other needs of children with Duchenne. The funds will address additional care and resources beyond the newly agreed medicines. The agreement marks the end of prolonged protests, with parents now collaborating directly with officials. A structured working group will guide the next steps in acquiring the treatments. Full details of the procurement process will be released once families have been informed.