World's most expensive life-changing drug approved for use in Ireland

The world's most expensive drug is set to become available for patients in Ireland following price negotiations.

Libmeldy, a drug that is used to treat a rare, life threatening disease that affects children's metabolic systems has a whopping price of €2.28m for a one-off dose.

The inherited disease known as Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) seriously damages the brain and nervous system of children.

The breakthrough for the incredibly expensive miracle drug follows extensive talks with manufacturer Orchard Therapeutics through joint negotiations between Ireland, the Netherlands and Belgium.

Three children in Ireland are expected to be treated with the drug that is made from stem cells in the patients blood or bone marrow which is then modified and given as an infusion into the blood stream, over a five-year period.

The cost of the drug that will make a massive positive impact to patients has not yet been disclosed but Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly confirmed the approval of the drug by the HSE.

It is understood the reduction in price could range from 25% to 65%, depending on the different subgroups of patients that will be treated.