Many patients worldwide face the challenge of accessing a crucial cystic fibrosis drug due to high costs. A generic version produced in Bangladesh provides a significant opportunity at a much lower price.

A Journey for Hope

Josua Lottering, 18, traveled from South Africa to Bangladesh with his mother. Their goal was to secure a year’s supply of a life-saving cystic fibrosis drug. Upon arrival at Dhaka’s airport, Josua was hit hard by the smoggy air, which triggered severe coughing due to his reduced lung capacity.

Despite the discomfort, Josua felt relief. The journey’s success meant obtaining the drug that has significantly improved the quality of life for patients in North America and Europe. Back home, the cost of this medication was beyond reach for his family.

The Drug in Focus

Trikafta, developed by Boston-based Vertex Pharmaceuticals, helps cystic fibrosis patients breathe more easily and live longer. In the U.S., a year’s supply is priced around $346,000.

Vertex has controlled the market for transformative cystic fibrosis medications, earning approximately $49 billion in revenue from Trikafta since 2019. However, this drug isn’t available in many low-income regions due to Vertex’s restrictive sales policies.

A New Hope Emerges

A Bangladeshi company, Beximco Pharmaceuticals, has capitalized on a patent law loophole to reverse-engineer Trikafta, offering a generic version named Triko. This new version is available at a fraction of the cost to patients like Josua.

Recently, the Lotterings and other families visited Dhaka to purchase the first batches of Triko, bringing new hope and relief to those who struggle financially to access essential medication.