June is an important month for raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and promoting brain health. This year, Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month brings exceptional news for those affected by this debilitating condition. On June 9, 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended full approval of a new Alzheimer’s drug, Leqembi by the end of the summer. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the fight against Alzheimer’s and offers new hope to millions of individuals and their families who have been impacted by this devastating disease.
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Eisai and Biogen’s New Alzheimer’s Drug
The soon-to-be-approved Alzheimer’s drug, Leqembi, has shown promising results in clinical trials to slow cognitive decline in patients in the early stages of the illness. The placebo-controlled trial, known as CLARITY AD, showed Leqembi slowed the rate of cognitive and functional decline by 27% when compared to a placebo after 18 months.
The drug, lecanemab, which will be sold under the name Leqembi, is a monoclonal antibody infusion given every two weeks. Leqembi, developed by Eisai and Biogen, targets the underlying causes of Alzheimer’s by reducing the build-up of amyloid plaques in the brain. These plaques are believed to contribute to the cognitive decline associated with the disease. The FDA’s decision to approve this drug is a testament to its effectiveness in slowing down cognitive impairment and potentially improving the quality of life for Alzheimer’s patients.
Impact on Alzheimer’s Treatment
The FDA’s approval of this Alzheimer’s drug represents a major breakthrough in Alzheimer’s research. On June 7, 2021, the FDA granted accelerated approval to aducanumab (Aduhelm), the first drug in 18 years for Alzheimer’s disease, and the introduction of this new drug brings renewed hope to patients and their caregivers. The drug’s potential to slow down the progression of the disease has ignited optimism among the medical community.
Moreover, the approval of this drug could pave the way for further research and development in Alzheimer’s treatment. It opens doors to exploring novel therapeutic approaches that target the specific mechanisms behind the disease, offering the potential for more effective interventions in the future.
The Importance of Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month
Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month is an essential campaign that aims to educate the public about the risks of Alzheimer’s disease, promote brain health, and support individuals and families impacted by the condition. With the approval of this groundbreaking Alzheimer’s drug during this significant month, the spotlight on the disease intensifies.
This development serves as a reminder of the urgency to invest in Alzheimer’s research, raise awareness, and provide support to those affected. It highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to find a cure, improve early detection, and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.
The FDA’s approval of Leqembi marks a significant milestone in the field of Alzheimer’s research and treatment. This breakthrough drug offers new hope to millions of individuals suffering from the disease and their families. As we commemorate Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month this June, let us use this occasion to increase public awareness, support ongoing research, and advocate for improved care and treatment options for those affected by Alzheimer’s. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of individuals living with Alzheimer’s and move closer to a world without this devastating disease.
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First Choice Neurology’s Memory Cafe is a virtual community for caregivers, family members, and those living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Our virtual Memory Cafe offers educational materials, videos, support groups, a list of Neurologists, a virtual library, clinical trials, and other resources for Alzheimer’s and dementia.
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Updated June 14, 2023