Patients, Top Epilepsy Doctor Stand with Saskatchewan NDP in Push for Anti-Seizure Medication

REGINA - Patients and the head of Saskatchewan’s Epilepsy Program joined the Saskatchewan NDP today to call on the Sask. Party to resume talks for public coverage of Xcopri, a life-changing anti-seizure medication.

The Sask. Party abruptly halted negotiations for the drug in October 2024, ignoring recommendations from local medical experts and patient advocates.

“The Sask. Party needs to stop ignoring our healthcare workers and make this medication available for people suffering from seizures,” said Vicki Mowat, Shadow Minister for Health.

“After 17 years of the Sask. Party, our province ranks last in healthcare in Canada. We have a chance to lead again by listening to healthcare workers and supporting this life-saving medication.”

The cost of treatment with Xcopri is in line with, or less than, other epilepsy medications that are currently covered by provincial drug plans.

The Canadian League Against Epilepsy, which represents more than 200 neurologists, epileptologists and other health care professionals, is issuing a rare call to action to the Sask. Party government.

Local Saskatchewan doctors are also speaking up.

“I have seen significant seizure reduction and even seizure freedom in my patients who take Xcopri. These patients are drug resistant, which means they’ve all failed multiple treatments,” said Dr. Alexandra Carter, neurologist/epileptologist and Medical Director of the Saskatchewan Epilepsy Program with the Saskatchewan Health Authority and the University of Saskatchewan.

“For years, these patients have been living with uncontrolled seizures and had little hope of achieving a better quality of life – now, they are experiencing life-changing results. You can’t put a price on that, and yet cost remains a significant barrier for many who qualify for this treatment.”

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