In a major milestone for medical innovation, the UAE has become the first country in the world to approve Rilzabrutinib, an oral therapy developed by pharmaceutical company Sanofi for Immune Thrombocytopenia, a rare autoimmune disorder that affects only two to five individuals per 100,000 globally.
With this landmark approval by the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE), the country made a significant and innovative step in addressing a condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s own platelets, leading to increased risk of bleeding and fatigue.
The oral therapy works by rebalancing the immune system and increasing platelet counts, giving patients faster relief and significantly improving quality of life. Clinical studies have shown strong outcomes, with patients reporting major improvements in their overall health and energy levels.
Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Director General of the EDE, hailed the move as a reflection of the UAE’s growing global role in healthcare and stated, "The UAE is committed to providing access to the world’s latest therapeutic innovations and further promoting its position as a regional hub for pharmaceutical excellence".
The announcement places the UAE at the forefront of international efforts to provide early access to cutting-edge treatments, particularly for rare diseases with limited therapeutic options.