Europe is extending access to gene therapy for SMA in children over the age of two

The European Commission has just authorised the marketing of Itvisma (onasemnogene abeparvovec) for the treatment of SMN1-related proximal spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in patients aged two years and over.

  • This is the first gene therapy authorised in the European Union for patients with SMA aged over two years, including adolescents and adults, administered as a single dose.
  • Unlike Zolgensma, which is administered intravenously and is intended for children weighing less than 21 kg, Itvisma (the same product) is administered intrathecally to older patients.
  • This authorisation is based in particular on the results of the STEER and STRENGTH studies, which demonstrated a clinical benefit in terms of motor function in patients aged between 2 and 18 years.
  • In France, the health authorities will examine the conditions for access to this new treatment.

 

SMA Europe. 1 July 2026

 

Novartis. 2 July 2026.