We are thrilled to learn about a significant breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer's disease—recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted accelerated approval for Leqembi (lecanemab-irmb) as a groundbreaking treatment. This marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against Alzheimer's, with Leqembi being the second medication approved for the disease designed to tackle its fundamental pathophysiology.

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, irreversible brain disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Characterized by the loss of memory, thinking skills, and the ability to perform daily tasks, it devastates the lives of those afflicted and their families. The specific causes of Alzheimer's are yet to be fully understood, but the condition is associated with changes in the brain, including the presence of amyloid beta plaques and tau tangles, which lead to the loss of neurons and cognitive functioning.

Leqembi, a product of breakthrough scientific research, represents a major advancement in the therapeutic approach to Alzheimer's disease. Unlike traditional treatments, Leqembi directly targets and affects the underlying disease process rather than merely addressing its symptoms. The recent FDA approval comes after a comprehensive evaluation of its efficacy, incorporating a Phase 3 randomized, controlled clinical trial involving 856 patients with Alzheimer's.

The clinical trial revealed significant dose- and time-dependent reduction of amyloid beta plaques in patients receiving the approved dose of Leqembi compared to the placebo group. Remarkably, these reductions in plaques were linked to the progression of treatment. Amyloid beta plaque levels were assessed using positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, offering powerful evidence for the effectiveness of Leqembi in combating this hallmark feature of Alzheimer's disease.

It is important to note that Leqembi received accelerated approval from the FDA, with the requirement that a Phase 3 clinical trial be conducted to confirm its clinical benefits. Additionally, prescribing information for Leqembi includes warnings about amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), which may occur with this class of antibodies, and infusion-related reactions. ARIA, accompanied by temporary brain swelling and sporadic bleeding, is generally asymptomatic, but caution is necessary. Common side effects of Leqembi observed in the clinical trial were infusion-related reactions, headache, and ARIA.

According to the prescribing information, Leqembi should be initiated in patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia stages, which were specifically studied during the clinical trials. At present, there is insufficient safety and effectiveness data on initiating treatment at different stages of the disease beyond those investigated in the trials.

The accelerated approval of Leqembi offers hope and optimism for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and their loved ones. It signifies a significant step forward in treating the disease by addressing its underlying pathology. With Leqembi now available as a treatment option, there is renewed promise in the fight against this devastating condition.

As we celebrate the recent FDA approval of Leqembi as a breakthrough medication in Alzheimer's treatment, we remain committed to promoting mental hygiene and supporting high-quality scientific research on consciousness and brain health at Washbrain. We recognize the immeasurable impact of Alzheimer's disease and strive to disseminate accurate information and foster a deeper understanding of mental well-being. Leqembi's approval reinforces our dedication to bringing cutting-edge developments to the forefront, holding immense potential for transforming the lives of those affected by this debilitating disease.
July 10, 2023 — Tyler Ozkan
Tags: FDA News