Spinraza is a medicine administered by a doctor who is experienced in giving injections into the lower back. This injection, also known as a lumbar puncture or spinal tap, involves inserting a needle in the space around the spinal cord (intrathecal space). You or your child may be given a medicine to help induce relaxation or sleep (sedation) before being given Spinraza, and an ultrasound or other imaging equipment may be used to guide the insertion of the needle.

Spinraza helps the body’s SMN2 gene to produce more SMN protein. Once SMN is increased, regular doses of Spinraza are needed to keep these levels up. When motor neurons have more SMN protein available, less of them will die, which can help people with SMA to maintain and improve their muscle strength and function. Given the treatment stops muscle weakness and wasting from getting worse, it is important to start treatment as early as possible.

Your neurologist will advise the best treatment option for you or your child with SMA.

Spinraza is available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for people of all ages with SMA types 1-3 who have SMA symptoms, or people who do not yet have symptoms but do have one, two or three copies of the SMN2 gene.  

Spinraza treatment begins with four injections over a period of two months, known as loading doses. After this, you or your child will require one dose every four months to maintain its effects. Unless agreed otherwise by the neurologist, treatment will continue on an ongoing basis.

The CMI provides important information about using Spinraza.