GLATECT(TM) IS NOW COVERED BY THE PROVINCIAL DRUG PLAN IN BRITISH COLUMBIA FOR THE TREATMENT OF RELAPSING-REMITTING MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (RRMS)

GLATECTTM (glatiramer acetate injection, 20 mg/1 mL) has been added to the provincial drug plan formulary in British Columbia as the only glatiramer-based treatment covered for patients prescribed glatiramer acetate for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Launched in September 2017 by Pendopharm, a division of Pharmascience Inc., GLATECTTM is the first glatiramer-based treatment subsequent to the original glatiramer acetate. It offers a cost-effective glatiramer acetate option for Canadian patients living with RRMS, a chronic disease of the central nervous system characterized by inflammation and neurodegeneration.2

British Columbia is the first Canadian province to require a mandatory transition to GLATECTTM for continued coverage. The new SA criteria for glatiramer acetate released by PharmaCare specifies: As of November 27, all SA requests and renewals for glatiramer acetate for RRMS patients in British Columbia will only be approved for GLATECTTM; patients currently on the original glatiramer acetate must transition to GLATECTTM (in consultation with their prescriber) by May 28, 2019, to maintain PharmaCare coverage. Some exceptions may apply.*,1

GLATECTTM is provided in pre-filled syringes with the Sensigo® Autoinjector, a device designed to deliver daily subcutaneous doses of glatiramer to adult patients, facilitating self-injection.3–5

“Our goal is to ensure a smooth transition to GLATECTTM. Patients are our priority, which is why all GLATECTTM patients are eligible for the Ally Patient Support Program,” says Jean-François Lemieux, VP and General Manager of Pendopharm, a division of Pharmascience Inc. The Ally Patient Support Program offers injection support and training, reimbursement assistance, and financial assistance. Patients with questions are encouraged to call 1-833-ALLY100 (1-833-255-9100) to learn more.

“GLATECTTM is a prime example of how Pendopharm, a Canadian company, contributes significantly to the sustainability of the health care system in Canada by making important therapies more affordable and, therefore, more accessible to patients,” Lemieux says.

GLATECTTM is also the only glatiramer-based treatment covered for all patients starting on glatiramer acetate by the provincial drug plans of Ontario, Alberta, Québec, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and New Brunswick, based on specific criteria for the treatment of RRMS. Coverage criteria should be verified with each provincial health authority, as they may vary.

Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world, with an estimated 77,000 Canadians living with the disease. RRMS is characterized by relapses during which new symptoms appear or existing symptoms get worse. These relapses are unpredictable, but clearly defined. During the periods between relapses, the patient goes into remission, meaning that he or she experiences full, or nearly full, recovery.2

*Patients who are medically unable to transition to GLATECTTM can submit a new SA request for exceptional coverage, which will be reviewed by SA on a case-by-case basis.