Zakro Gvishiani: Georgia marks Duchenne Awareness Day with groundbreaking new drug left out of many developed countries

“Ahead of World Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Day on 7 September, Georgia is marking a historic breakthrough by securing an innovative treatment unavailable in many developed nations,” stated Zakro Gvishiani, parent of a child with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

According to Gvishiani, Georgia has accomplished what seemed unattainable mere months ago.

“I share in this joy; Georgia has achieved what appeared impossible just months ago. A decision has been reached regarding an innovative medication. The path was far from easy. The Ministry kept us fully informed of every procedure and milestone. I wish to extend special thanks to Mikheil Sarjveladze and his team. This is a monumental achievement. We now have access to a treatment that is available in only a handful of the world’s most advanced nations.

“The drug will be integrated into the National Disease Management Programme. The procurement was completed strictly within the timeframe pledged by the Georgian Government. Intensive negotiations were conducted to ensure uncompromised quality, continuity of supply, and, crucially, timely delivery. The medication will arrive in Georgia within days, and I congratulate every parent, patient, and supporter,” Zakro Gvishiani declared.

He emphasised that progress on securing a second medication is equally pivotal.

“We deeply appreciate the approach demonstrated by the Health Minister and his team. They are exercising meticulous care to safeguard quality, timely delivery, and uninterrupted supply. The primary goal is ensuring timely, accessible treatment, which is intrinsically tied to pharmaceutical quality. This is an innovative drug emerging on the global market, making its importation and rigorous quality control essential. We are delighted that a second treatment will soon be accessible in Georgia. On 7 September, World Duchenne Awareness Day, we arrive with historic news: Georgia has succeeded in securing an innovative treatment that remains unavailable even in many leading, highly developed nations,” Gvishiani stated.

The Minister of IDPs, Labour, Health and Social Affairs, Mikheil Sarjveladze, confirmed earlier that the first shipment of Givinostat for patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy will land in Georgia early next week.