MIRACLE DRUG MAKES CYSTIC FIBROSIS 'VANISH'

A WONDER drug that makes most signs of cystic fibrosis "vanish" has been approved in a major boost for thousands of UK sufferers.

- By Chris Riches

Alyftrek is so advanced that trials show patients no longer exhibit CF symptoms in vital tests.

The “next generation” drug has been backed by regulators and could be available on the NHS by late August if a medicines watchdog gives doctors the green light to use it. Catherine Farrer, 41, mother of CF sufferer Kate, 10, said she was thrilled by the Alyftrek approval and is desperate for her daughter to have it. She added: "We are keen to try to switch her to Alyftrek when we can."

CF is a life-limiting genetic condition that affects 11,000 people in the UK, but before 2019 the NHS had no effective treatment.

However, last summer - after a five-year Daily Express campaign - US drug giant Vertex agreed a health service deal so that 90% of CF patients suitable for its treatments - Orkambi, Symkevi and Kaftrio - could access them.

Bosses at watchdog the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence are now studying the cost-effectiveness of Vertex pill Alyftrek. CF patient Carlie Pleasant was also delighted that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency had backed the new drug.

She said: "This feels like one step closer to living lives without being reminded we even have CF - there's a wonderful future on the horizon."

The mum of one, 35, added: "When I first started campaigning with the Daily Express for access to Vertex's CF drugs back in 2019, I was spending weeks away from my baby boy Jude in hospital with lung bugs.

"In 2020 after we secured the initial deals I went on Symkevi and then the first real wonder CF drug Kaftrio - which I'm on right now. They have transformed my health and life.

"The last time I had a hospital admission was in 2020. Now I am able to work, go on holiday, spend time with my husband and son and not have to worry about when the next chest infection is coming."