On an early Monday morning, 14-year-old Bhavin Khare and his mother, Tanuja, travelled nearly 100 km from Murbad in Thane to Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital in Parel, Mumbai. Their destination was not just a hospital visit—it was a life-changing moment. Bhavin was there to receive Trikafta, a breakthrough US drug for cystic fibrosis, estimated to cost over ₹1 crore for a year’s supply.
“Bhavin has been struggling all his life,” said Tanuja. “Due to frequent cough and chest infections, he manages to attend school only half the time. We hope this drug helps him lead a normal life.”
Lifeline for 40 Children
Bhavin is one of five children who received a three-month supply of Trikafta on Monday. In total, 40 children registered at Wadia Hospital will get lifelong access to the medication, thanks to a compassionate-use agreement signed with US-based Vertex Pharmaceuticals.
“This is a major step forward for our patients,” said Dr Parmarth Chandane, Head of the Pulmonology Department. “We’ve been in talks with the company for almost a year, and they’ve now agreed to supply Trikafta for free for life to 40 eligible children over six years old.”
Trikafta: A Game-Changer
Trikafta combines three active ingredients—elexacaftor, tezacaftor, and ivacaftor—to address the root cause of cystic fibrosis. The medication thins the thick, sticky mucus that clogs organs such as the lungs, pancreas, and intestines, improving respiratory function and nutrient absorption. Patients must take two tablets in the morning and one in the evening daily to maintain its effects.
Though the active ingredients are manufactured in India, patent laws currently prevent local access to the finished drug. In contrast, children in wealthier countries have been benefiting from this medication for nearly eight years. Parents’ groups in countries like South Africa, Brazil, and India have petitioned their governments. They are seeking mechanisms such as compulsory licensing through the courts.
A New Era of Access in India
Wadia Hospital’s success marks the beginning of alternative access for Indian patients. “Research shows the drug can extend life expectancy to 80 years—far beyond the usual 15-20 years associated with the disease,” said Dr Chandane.
As reported by TOI, the initiative is gaining momentum, with other hospitals joining the effort. Vertex has agreed to provide the drug to registered patients at CMC Vellore in Tamil Nadu. SRCC Hospital in Mumbai is also in discussions for similar access.
Breaking Financial Barriers
“By offering such costly and essential medication free of charge, we are removing financial barriers for families,” said Dr Minnie Bodhanwala, CEO of Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital. “These children now have a real chance to breathe easier, grow healthier, and live longer.”
This compassionate collaboration brings renewed hope to families battling a life-limiting condition. It may also serve as a model for rare disease access in India.