The US Food and Drug Administration has given the green light to a new monoclonal antibody called donanemab, developed by Eli Lilly, to help slow the progression of early symptomatic Alzheimer's disease. Priced at $695 per vial, the treatment, known as Kisunla, is aimed at reducing amyloid plaque buildup in the brain, a key characteristic of Alzheimer's.
While not a cure, clinical trials have shown that donanemab can significantly slow the advancement of the disease, enabling patients to maintain independence and engage in daily activities for longer periods.
Although the treatment has demonstrated positive outcomes, there were rare instances of serious adverse events during the trials, with a slightly higher mortality rate among those who received donanemab compared to the placebo group.
Despite these risks, the FDA advisory committee deemed the treatment safe and effective, citing a 35% lower risk of disease progression over 18 months for those on donanemab.
Donanemab joins other approved monoclonal antibody treatments like Leqembi, with both showing promise in managing early Alzheimer's symptoms. However, concerns over adverse effects, such as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities, have been raised.
Lilly has emphasized the importance of early detection and diagnosis in maximizing the benefits of these treatments, as they are most effective in the early stages of the disease.
With Alzheimer's affecting a growing number of individuals, the approval of Kisunla offers hope for patients and caregivers alike. The Alzheimer's Association has welcomed the news, highlighting the significance of having multiple treatment options to combat this challenging and widespread disease.
As research continues and advancements in Alzheimer's treatments evolve, the focus remains on improving the quality of life for those impacted by the disease and addressing the increasing demand for care and support services.
