Previously, the drug was available to Albertans 12 years of age and older. The medication is now approved for use by younger children and covered in Alberta.

“Alberta was among the first provinces and territories to provide older children and adults with access to Trikafta. Once again, Alberta’s government is leading the way by quickly making this transformative medication available to younger children, giving them the same opportunity to realize an improved quality of life.”

Jason Copping, Minister of Health

“This news will change the trajectory of the disease and the future for many children in Alberta who live with cystic fibrosis. Alberta was one of the first provinces to fund the drug for those 12 years of age and older last year, and has continued to recognize Trikafta’s extraordinary, transformative value by expanding coverage of Trikafta to include children ages six to 11. We celebrate this news alongside our CF community in Alberta, which has worked tirelessly for this day.”

Kelly Grover, president and CEO, Cystic Fibrosis Canada

"The Canadian CF Treatment Society thanks the Government of Alberta for acting fast to make Trikafta available for children six years and older. This announcement will completely change the course of life for many children living with cystic fibrosis. We thank Alberta for being one of the first provinces to make Trikafta available to adult CF patients last September and children today. We need more provinces to take action like Premier Kenney and Minister Copping to save lives across the country."

Chris MacLeod, national chair, Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Treatment Society

“Thank you to Minister Copping and your team for publicly funding Trikafta for these children! I am so excited for what the future holds for them and that they can start their next school year with much better health! As an adult with severe cystic fibrosis disease progression, I have experienced the life-changing results Trikafta can bring and I am so thankful that children with this devastating, progressive disease may not have to suffer the same burden that we as adults have. They now have a chance for a much healthier and longer life because of your actions. As a parent I can feel their relief, as all you want for your children is for them to be able to reach their full potential. The access you provided today makes that a reality for the first time for parents of CF kids!”

Amanda Bartels, cystic fibrosis patient and lead CF Canada volunteer advocate for Alberta

"We have not had hope because it was taken from us. We lost our son to CF only 22 hours after birth and had to continue facing that trauma every day with our living CF child. For us, Trikafta changes that and gives us so much hope for a bright future for our sweet girl and gives her the best chance at a normal and happy life."

Renee Berdan, parent

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease in which mucus accumulates in the lungs, digestive tract and other parts of the body. Symptoms of cystic fibrosis may include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, frequent chest infections and weight loss.

Quick facts

  • The use of Trikafta to treat children aged six to 11 was approved by Health Canada on April 19 and recommended for listing by the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health on July 6.
  • Alberta’s government provided Albertans 12 years of age and older, who meet eligibility criteria, with access to Trikafta in September 2021. After extensive consideration of the needs of Albertans living with cystic fibrosis, the province chose to provide broader access so the majority can receive treatment with the drug.
  • The government also provides coverage for cystic fibrosis drugs Kalydeco and Orkambi for those meeting eligibility criteria.