Chairman Johnson Applauds FDA Decision to Approve Eteplirsen To Treat Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

WASHINGTON — Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, applauded the FDA’s decision Monday to approve eteplirsen, a promising treatment for young boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Johnson and other senators have been pressuring the FDA to complete its review of this drug since early 2016. Johnson had this to say following the announcement:

“The FDA’s decision to approve eteplirsen is an important first step in providing terminally ill patients with access to potentially life-saving treatments,” Johnson said. “Duchenne is a nearly 100 percent fatal disease, and patients like Jordan McLinn have been crying out for the FDA to complete its review of this promising treatment. I’m glad the FDA has finally heard their cries and approved this drug. It’s time to give these patients hope. Every American should have the right to try to save their own lives – the right to hope.”

Background

Chairman Johnson’s letter to FDA on Feb. 18, 2016 can be found here.

Chairman Johnson’s letter to FDA on March 16, 2016 can be found here.

Chairman Johnson’s statement on April 26, 2016 on FDA panel not approving eteplirsen can be found here.

Chairman Johnson and Sen. Coats’ letter to the FDA on May 20, 2016 can be found here.

Chairman Johnson and Sen. Alexander’s letter to the FDA on Sept. 16, 2016 can be found here.

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