We’re pleased to share that, following the SMC committee meeting on Tuesday 4 August 2026 , the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) has accepted nusinersen (Spinraza®) for babies with 5q spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) who have not yet developed symptoms of the condition.

This is a welcome and meaningful decision for the SMA community in Scotland. Now all three treatments for SMA have been approved for use before symptoms start, families with babies identified through newborn screening can make the best treatment choice for their individual situation, with the support of their specialist clinicians. 

How did the SMC reach its decision? 

The SMC reviews new medicines carefully, considering the benefits they may bring to patients as well as whether they represent a good use of NHS resources. 

As part of its assessment, the SMC looked at evidence from the pharmaceutical company about how well nusinersen works compared with treatments currently available in Scotland, alongside the costs of treatment. It also considered information from SA UK and MDUK about the potential impact on people living with SMA and their carers, as well as advice from healthcare professionals.  

Thank you 

Thank you to everyone who continues to support advocacy at SMA UK. The voices of people with lived experience have a huge impact on all of SMA UK’s treatment access work across the UK.  

Read more from the Scottish Medicines Consortium here