Novartis AG (NYSE: NVS) announced that Itvisma (onasemnogene abeparvovec‑brve) received U.S. FDA approval for children aged two and older, teens, and adults with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) caused by SMN1 gene mutations, becoming the first and only gene replacement therapy for this broad population.

Regulatory Milestone

ItemDetail
ProductItvisma (onasemnogene abeparvovec‑brve)
CompanyNovartis AG (NYSE: NVS)
AgencyU.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Approval Date24 Nov 2025
IndicationSMA in patients aged ≥2 years with confirmed SMN1 mutation
SignificanceFirst gene replacement therapy for this population
AdministrationSingle one-time intrathecal injection

Drug Profile

  • Mechanism: Delivers functional copy of human SMN1 gene via adeno-associated viral vector
  • Innovation: Addresses genetic root cause of SMA rather than symptoms
  • Differentiation: First gene therapy approved for pediatric, adolescent, and adult SMA patients
  • Dosing: Single intrathecal injection for sustained SMN protein expression

Clinical Evidence

StudyDesignKey Findings
STEERPhase III registrationalStatistically significant motor function improvements
STRENGTHPhase IIIb open-labelMotor ability stabilization sustained over 52 weeks
DurabilityBoth studiesEffects maintained throughout follow-up period
SafetyCombined dataManageable adverse events; consistent safety profile

Market Impact & Outlook

MetricValue
Global SMA Market$2.8 billion (2024)
Addressable Patients~50,000 patients aged ≥2 years with SMN1 mutations
Current StandardSpinraza (nusinersen) and Evrysdi (risdiplam) require chronic dosing
PricingGene therapies priced at $2‑3 million per treatment
Peak Sales Forecast$1.2‑1.8 billion by 2030
Competitive Edge: Single-dose curative potential vs. lifelong chronic therapy
  • Reimbursement: FDA approval triggers URAC discussions; value-based agreements likely given one-time nature
  • Manufacturing: Utilizes existing AveXis gene therapy platform capacity
  • Pipeline Expansion: Platform applicable to other neurological monogenic disorders

Forward-Looking Statements
This brief contains forward-looking statements regarding Itvisma’s commercial performance, market penetration, and manufacturing capacity. Actual results may differ materially due to risks including pricing negotiations, competitive responses, and real-world efficacy data.-Fineline Info & Tech