What's Happening?
Two new drugs, Leqembi and Kisunla, have been developed to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease by targeting amyloid plaques in the brain. Leqembi, approved by the FDA in July 2023, is administered bi-weekly via intravenous infusion and has shown
to improve mild cognitive impairment by clearing amyloid plaques and protofibrils. Kisunla, approved in July 2024, works similarly but is administered monthly and has demonstrated a 35% reduction in cognitive decline. Both drugs are expensive, with annual costs exceeding $26,000, but are largely covered by Medicare. Despite potential side effects like brain swelling and headaches, these drugs represent significant advancements in early Alzheimer's treatment.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of Leqembi and Kisunla marks a significant breakthrough in Alzheimer's treatment, offering hope to millions affected by the disease. By slowing cognitive decline, these drugs can improve the quality of life for patients and potentially reduce the long-term care burden on families and healthcare systems. The high cost of these treatments highlights the ongoing challenge of making advanced medical therapies accessible. However, with Medicare coverage, a substantial portion of the financial burden is alleviated, making these treatments more attainable for patients.
What's Next?
As these drugs become more widely used, ongoing monitoring of their long-term efficacy and side effects will be crucial. Further studies may compare the effectiveness of Leqembi and Kisunla directly, providing clearer guidance for treatment choices. Additionally, the pharmaceutical industry may focus on developing more cost-effective solutions or alternative therapies to address Alzheimer's disease. The success of these drugs could also spur increased investment in research for other neurodegenerative diseases.
