Spinraza is a drug that takes the SMN-2 gene to produce a protein that is normally produced by the SMN-1 gene, replacing it. Thus, this medication is used to treat cases of spinal muscular atrophy, which develops due to lack or defect of the SMN-1 gene in the body.
Although this drug has already been approved in the United States by the FDA and is being used as a treatment in the hospital, it still needs Anvisa's approval in Brazil.
Price
Sprayraza still can not be bought in Brazil, but treatment with this drug is already made in the United States for approximately 3 million reais. Thus, if there is no other form of treatment and the doctor indicates, it is possible to go to court to request that treatment be done outside the country and funded by the health plan.
What is it for
This medication is indicated for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy, in adults as well as in children, especially when other forms of treatment do not present results.
How to use
The use of spinraza can only be done in the hospital by a doctor or nurse, since it is necessary to inject the medicine directly in the space where the spinal cord is.
Usually the treatment is done with 3 initial doses separated by 14 days, followed by another dose 30 days after the 3rd and 1 dose every 4 months for maintenance.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects of using this remedy include constipation, tooth decay and more frequent respiratory infections.
Who should not use
There are no contraindications for the use of spinraza, and it can be used in almost all cases, after evaluation by the physician.
