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Statement from the Muscular Dystrophy Association on Servier’s Decision to Discontinue Sevasemten Development for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Chicago, IL – Friday, November 13, 2026 – The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) acknowledges Servier’s announcement that it will discontinue clinical development of sevasemten, an investigational therapy, for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This decision follows the Phase 3 GRAND CANYON study in Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD), which did not meet its primary or key secondary efficacy endpoints, and Servier’s subsequent review of available data from the Phase 2 LYNX and FOX studies evaluating sevasemten in DMD.

MDA will host an upcoming webinar for clinicians and families in the Duchenne community, to provide additional information about this development, discuss the clinical research findings, and address questions about what this decision means for the community. Additional details, including the date, time, and registration information, will be shared next week.

This decision follows earlier findings from the Phase 2 LYNX and FOX studies evaluating sevasemten in DMD. Initial findings reported in 2025 included encouraging observations across several measures of physical function and helped identify a dose for further evaluation. However, following the GRAND CANYON results in BMD, which did not demonstrate a statistically significant benefit over placebo, Servier reviewed the available data from the DMD studies and determined there was insufficient evidence to support continued development of sevasemten for DMD.

We recognize that this news is deeply disappointing for people and families living with BMD and DMD, particularly those who participated in the LYNX and FOX and GRAND CANYON clinical trials or were hopeful that sevasemten might become another treatment option.

While these outcomes are not what the community had hoped for, every clinical trial contributes to the broader understanding of neuromuscular diseases and helps inform future research. The knowledge gained from the GRAND CANYON, LYNX, and FOX studies, including insights into clinical outcome measures, trial design, and disease progression, may help guide future therapeutic development. We encourage continued transparency and the sharing of comprehensive study findings with the scientific and patient communities.

Servier has reported that the studies demonstrated a safety and tolerability profile consistent with prior research, with no new adverse events or safety concerns identified. We appreciate the company's commitment to further analyzing the data and sharing its findings with the broader community.

MDA extends our sincere appreciation to the people living with BMD and DMD, their families and caregivers, investigators, and clinical research teams who contributed their time, trust, and participation to these studies. Their contributions are essential to advancing research and bringing the field closer to meaningful treatment options.

MDA remains committed to advancing research, accelerating the development of meaningful treatments, and supporting people and families living with BMD, DMD, and other neuromuscular diseases. We will continue to champion research, elevate community perspectives, and provide access to credible, timely information as the field evolves.

MDA Support

For more information on SMA, and ongoing support for families and medical professionals, contact the MDA Resource Center by phone 1-833-ASK-MDA1 (1-833-275-6321) or email ResourceCenter@mdausa.org. 

Media contacts:
Muscular Dystrophy Association: press@mdausa.org
Novartis: media.relations@novartis.com

About Muscular Dystrophy Association

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) has been at the center of progress for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 other neuromuscular conditions for over 75 years. We unite researchers, clinicians, advocates, and families to speed the pace of discovery, improve access to expert care, and ensure inclusion in every aspect of life. Our mission is simple: give the people we serve the tools and opportunities to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more visit mda.org. Follow MDA on social media on Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.