Lecanemab is a groundbreaking medication used to treat Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that affects millions worldwide by impairing memory and cognitive functions. It is a type of monoclonal antibody, which is a highly specific and targeted treatment designed to combat specific proteins in the body. In the case of lecanemab, it targets amyloid beta, a sticky protein that forms harmful deposits in the brain known as amyloid plaques. These plaques are toxic to brain cells and contribute to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

Lecanemab works by clearing away these amyloid plaques and preventing their formation, which can slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s in some patients. It is particularly effective for those with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s. The drug was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2023 under the name Leqembi, marking a significant step forward in addressing the underlying biology of Alzheimer’s.

While lecanemab is not a cure, it offers hope for patients by potentially extending their independence. Studies have shown that treatments like lecanemab can help patients maintain their independence for several months longer than without treatment. Another drug, donanemab, also targets amyloid plaques and has shown similar benefits in clinical trials. Both drugs are administered intravenously and have been approved for use in early-stage Alzheimer’s patients.

However, these treatments are not without side effects. Common side effects include headaches and infusion-related reactions, which can feel like flu symptoms. More serious but rare side effects include amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), which can cause temporary brain swelling or minor bleeding. Despite these risks, lecanemab and similar drugs represent a promising approach to managing Alzheimer’s disease by targeting its root causes rather than just its symptoms.

The development of lecanemab is a result of collaboration between several companies, including Eisai and BioArctic. It is part of a broader effort to develop treatments that can effectively manage Alzheimer’s, a condition that currently has no cure. As research continues, there is hope that these and future anti-amyloid drugs will improve the quality of life for those affected by this debilitating disease.