New Alzheimer drug 'lecanemab' by Eisai Co and Biogen shows positive results but......, read what study says

On Tuesday, researchers presented additional findings from a widely watched Alzheimer's disease trial, offering more information on the drug's dangers and advantages as US health officials consider authorising it.

In a test of more than 1,700 participants with early-stage Alzheimer's disease, researchers found that Eisai Co. and Biogen Inc.'s medicine, lecanemab, delayed cognitive deterioration by 27% compared to a placebo over 18 months.

According to the researchers, the medicine had a mild impact and was related to edoema and bleeding in the brain. They suggested that the treatment be studied extensively and for a more extended period.


In the lecanemab group, over seventeen percentage of patients experienced indications of brain hemorrhage, compared to 9% in the placebo group. Brain swelling occurred in 12.6% of those given the medication vs 1.7% of those shown placebos.

Alzheimer's researchers have anxiously awaited the trial results since Eisai announced preliminary findings in September, sparking optimism among physicians and patients that a new medicine proven to benefit Alzheimer's patients are on the way.

The firms have sought the FDA to conditionally approve lecanemab based on an earlier trial that found the medicine lowered amyloid levels, a brain protein linked to Alzheimer's disease. The agency's judgment is expected by 6 January.

‘Eisai’, the company in charge of lecanemab development, has said that it intends to seek complete clearance using the new research findings.

FAQ

What exactly is Alzheimer's Disease?
It is a gradual condition that begins with minor memory loss and may proceed to loss of capacity to converse and respond to the surroundings.

How long do persons with Alzheimer's live?
Alzheimer's disease progresses at a variable rate. People with Alzheimer's disease live between three and eleven years following diagnosis on average, but some live for 20 years or more.