Featured

Experimental Alzheimer's drug shows promise in slowing disease



Published
Many have been waiting to see the trial data now published in the New England Journal of Medicine, and it appears the longer the patient takes the experimental Alzheimer's drug Lecanemab, the better the benefit.

Lecanemab is a monoclonal antibody drug targeting abnormal clumps of beta-amyloid plaque on the brain. That's a sticky protein believed to contribute to cognitive decline.

All of the trial participants had early onset Alzheimer's disease. Research showed the drug appeared to slow cognitive and functional decline by 27% however, there were some safety concerns.

14% of those taking the drug had serious adverse reactions compared to 11.3% on the placebo. The adverse reactions included issues with the I.V. Infusion delivery system, brain swelling and brain bleeding. There were six deaths reported in the group taking the drug compared to seven deaths in the placebo group.

The trial found that those patients who were on the drug for at least 18 months had better outcomes.

The manufacturer of lecanemab has applied for an accelerated approval pathway. The FDA will decide whether to grant it in January.

Monica Robins reports: https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/health/new-experimental-alzheimers-drug-shows-promise/95-ac97135e-36f6-4cbf-a8aa-c8b0f3258c99
Category
Health
Be the first to comment