The Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Rare Diseases at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, has initiated treatment with Oral Risdiplam, a disease-modifying therapy for patients suffering from Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), benefiting two children registered under the centre.
The medicine was formally handed over to the beneficiaries by Prof. G. Sunil Kumar Sharma, Director of RIMS, at the Genetic Clinic of RIMS Hospital on June 22. This marks the first time that Oral Risdiplam has been provided through the RIMS Centre of Excellence under the National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD), 2021.
Oral Risdiplam is a high-cost therapy used in the treatment of SMA, a rare genetic disorder that affects muscle strength and movement. The initiation of the treatment represents a significant step forward in improving access to advanced care for patients with rare diseases in Manipur and the wider region.
RIMS stated that the development reflects the institute’s continued efforts to provide comprehensive care and modern treatment options for individuals affected by rare diseases. The initiative has been made possible with the support of the Rare Diseases Cell under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.