New Jersey mother finds hope with ALS drug QALSODY

A New Jersey mother, Raziel Green, is celebrating the impact of a new drug on her rare form of ALS. After being diagnosed with ALS in 2017, she struggled with symptoms for over a decade. Initially, her doctor told her there was nothing wrong, but after seeking multiple opinions, she was diagnosed with a genetic mutation linked to ALS. Green participated in a clinical trial for QALSODY®, an experimental drug developed by Biogen. Since starting the treatment, she has seen significant improvements and has not experienced any further decline in her condition. Her neurologist noted that her health has remained stable compared to when she was first diagnosed. QALSODY specifically targets the SOD1 form of ALS, reducing the harmful effects of mutations in the SOD1 gene. Some patients treated with the drug have reported stopping progression of the disease or even improvements in their condition, according to medical professionals. However, there are potential side effects, and long-term effects of the drug are still unknown. Now that QALSODY has received FDA approval, it is available to patients with the SOD1 gene mutation. Green describes her daily life as manageable, using a cane and a wheelchair for longer distances but still maintaining independence. She is grateful for the opportunity to take the medication, which brings hope not just for her but also for her children, who could benefit from preventative treatment.