Leading medical experts and patients are mounting urgent pressure on the Saskatchewan government to resume negotiations for publicly funding Xcopri. This anti-seizure medication promises significant relief for drug-resistant epilepsy patients.Dr. Alexandra Carter, Medical Director of the Saskatchewan Epilepsy Program, highlighted the medication's transformative potential."I have seen significant seizure reduction and even seizure freedom in my patients who take Xcopri," she said. "These patients are drug-resistant, which means they've all failed multiple treatments.".Saskatchewan Throne Speech details new healthcare spending.The provincial government abruptly halted negotiations for the drug in October 2024 despite recommendations from medical professionals and patient advocates. Treatment with Xcopri costs approximately $3000 per patient annually, which is comparable to or less expensive than currently covered epilepsy medications.The Canadian League Against Epilepsy (CLAE), representing over 200 neurologists and healthcare professionals, is calling for action. Dr. Lysa Boissé Lomax, president-elect of CLAE, emphasized the unprecedented nature of their intervention: "In my recollection over the last 15 years, this has never happened before.".Moe concerned over Trump’s proposed 25% tariff, calls for border security collaboration.Lori Newman, President of Epilepsy Saskatoon, underscored the human impact. "Living with uncontrolled seizures increases the risk of early death and affects all aspects of life," she said. "A medication now exists that can change all of that, but many people can't afford it."Saskatchewan NDP's Shadow Minister for Health Vicki Mowat criticized the current government's healthcare approach. "After 17 years of the Sask Party, our province ranks last in healthcare in Canada," Mowat stated. "We have a chance to lead again by listening to healthcare workers and supporting this life-saving medication.".Saskatchewan Throne Speech announces major spending plan for education.Based on compelling clinical evidence, the Canadian Drug Agency recommended Xcopri for public funding in August 2023. Health Canada approved the drug in June 2023, noting its effectiveness for patients who have not responded to other treatments.Advocates are now calling on Saskatchewan Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill to direct negotiations for provincial coverage, arguing that the medication could significantly improve the quality of life for epilepsy patients.
Leading medical experts and patients are mounting urgent pressure on the Saskatchewan government to resume negotiations for publicly funding Xcopri. This anti-seizure medication promises significant relief for drug-resistant epilepsy patients.Dr. Alexandra Carter, Medical Director of the Saskatchewan Epilepsy Program, highlighted the medication's transformative potential."I have seen significant seizure reduction and even seizure freedom in my patients who take Xcopri," she said. "These patients are drug-resistant, which means they've all failed multiple treatments.".Saskatchewan Throne Speech details new healthcare spending.The provincial government abruptly halted negotiations for the drug in October 2024 despite recommendations from medical professionals and patient advocates. Treatment with Xcopri costs approximately $3000 per patient annually, which is comparable to or less expensive than currently covered epilepsy medications.The Canadian League Against Epilepsy (CLAE), representing over 200 neurologists and healthcare professionals, is calling for action. Dr. Lysa Boissé Lomax, president-elect of CLAE, emphasized the unprecedented nature of their intervention: "In my recollection over the last 15 years, this has never happened before.".Moe concerned over Trump’s proposed 25% tariff, calls for border security collaboration.Lori Newman, President of Epilepsy Saskatoon, underscored the human impact. "Living with uncontrolled seizures increases the risk of early death and affects all aspects of life," she said. "A medication now exists that can change all of that, but many people can't afford it."Saskatchewan NDP's Shadow Minister for Health Vicki Mowat criticized the current government's healthcare approach. "After 17 years of the Sask Party, our province ranks last in healthcare in Canada," Mowat stated. "We have a chance to lead again by listening to healthcare workers and supporting this life-saving medication.".Saskatchewan Throne Speech announces major spending plan for education.Based on compelling clinical evidence, the Canadian Drug Agency recommended Xcopri for public funding in August 2023. Health Canada approved the drug in June 2023, noting its effectiveness for patients who have not responded to other treatments.Advocates are now calling on Saskatchewan Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill to direct negotiations for provincial coverage, arguing that the medication could significantly improve the quality of life for epilepsy patients.
