Eli Lilly Launches New Alzheimer’s Drug In India: Know How Will It Work, Access And Cost

India has entered a new phase in dementia care with the launch of its first disease-modifying therapy for Alzheimer’s disease. American pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Company has introduced donanemab in India under the brand name Lormalzi, offering new hope for patients living with early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease. Reports suggest the therapy could cost close to ₹1 lakh per dose, raising fresh concerns around affordability and access.

Approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), the monoclonal antibody targets amyloid beta plaques in the brain, a hallmark of the neurodegenerative condition. Administered as a once-monthly 350 mg intravenous infusion, Lormalzi is indicated for patients in the early stages mild cognitive

impairment or mild dementia.

This launch arrives as India grapples with a rapidly growing dementia burden. Approximately 8.8 million people currently live with dementia, with Alzheimer’s accounting for the majority of cases. Projections indicate this number could nearly double to 16.9 million by 2036, imposing substantial emotional, clinical, and economic costs estimated at around ₹28,300 crore annually.

How The Alzheimer’s Therapy Works?

Lormalzi is administered as a once-a-month intravenous infusion. Clinical studies have shown that the drug may help slow cognitive decline in selected patients, particularly those in the earlier stages of the disease. The treatment works by clearing amyloid plaques that accumulate in the brain over time and interfere with normal neurological functioning.

Dr. Anuradha H K, Lead Consultant – Neurology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, said, “Doctors say the arrival of donanemab marketed in India as Lormalzi by Eli Lilly and Company is like a real step forward, in the management of Alzheimer’s disease, especially because it goes after one of the core pathological hallmarks, not just the symptoms. Most older therapies are more about cognitive support, while this once a month infusion seems to work by clearing amyloid beta plaques in the brain, and those deposits are closely linked to how the condition moves forward over time.

“Clinically, it signals a change toward disease modifying care, though not everyone will fit neatly into the same group. In studies, lowering amyloid load has been connected with a slower cognitive decline in selected patients, especially those who are still in the earlier stages of Alzheimer’s. Still doctors stress, this is not a full cure. It may delay progression, but it does not undo existing neural injury, and it won’t completely stop the disease either.”

How Will The Alzheimer’s Therapy Costs?

A single vial is priced at approximately ₹91,688 (around $957), putting it out of reach for most Indian families. Multiple infusions over months amplify the financial strain, raising concerns about long-term adherence.

Dr. Anuradha H K noted, “One of the most pressing concerns still is accessibility. Costs are getting close to about ₹1 lakh per dose and that makes affordability a major barrier in India. Patients often need multiple infusions over several months, so the financial burden just keeps stacking up on families.”

Careful patient selection is essential, requiring advanced diagnostics like imaging or biomarkers, which are not widely available or affordable. Safety monitoring is critical due to risks such as brain swelling or microbleeds (ARIA), observed in trials. APOE4 gene testing may also be needed for risk assessment.

Experts view this as a landmark for neurological care in India, yet it underscores the need for better infrastructure, awareness, and financial support programs. While Lormalzi brings fresh hope, its real-world impact will hinge on equitable access and continued advancements in dementia care.