There are indeed ongoing legal actions and concerns related to patients who have developed seizures and other serious neurological complications after taking certain Alzheimer’s drugs, particularly those targeting amyloid plaques in the brain. These drugs, such as Kisunla (donanemab) and Leqembi (lecanemab), are monoclonal antibodies designed to reduce amyloid beta plaques, which are believed to contribute to Alzheimer’s disease progression. However, these medications have been linked to a side effect known as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), which can involve brain swelling, bleeding, and in some cases, seizures.
Specifically, Kisunla has been associated with serious brain complications including cerebral hemorrhage (brain bleeding), cerebral edema (brain swelling), and seizures. These adverse effects have led to regulatory scrutiny, with the European Medicines Agency refusing marketing authorization for Kisunla due to safety concerns outweighing the drug’s benefits. Reports indicate that a significant percentage of patients taking Kisunla experienced ARIA, with some suffering severe events that resulted in hospitalization, permanent neurological damage, or death. This has prompted legal actions, including class action lawsuits, where patients or their families seek compensation for harm caused by the drug.
Similarly, Leqembi has also raised safety concerns related to ARIA, particularly ARIA-E (edema or fluid buildup in the brain), which can be asymptomatic but may lead to serious complications such as seizures or status epilepticus, a life-threatening condition involving prolonged seizures. The FDA has responded by recommending earlier and more frequent MRI monitoring of patients receiving Leqembi to detect ARIA events sooner and mitigate risks by adjusting or discontinuing treatment as needed. This heightened vigilance reflects the seriousness of these side effects and the need for careful management.
While these drugs represent important advances in Alzheimer’s treatment by targeting underlying disease mechanisms, their association with seizures and other neurological issues has led to increased awareness, regulatory actions, and legal challenges. Patients who have developed seizures after taking these Alzheimer’s medications may be eligible to participate in class action lawsuits or other legal claims, particularly if they were not adequately warned about the risks or if the drug manufacturers failed to ensure patient safety.
It is important to note that not all Alzheimer’s drugs carry the same risks, and the occurrence of seizures is linked primarily to those drugs that cause ARIA. Clinical trials and ongoing research continue to evaluate the safety profiles of new and existing Alzheimer’s therapies, including those targeting tau proteins and inflammation, as well as genetic and oral treatments. Meanwhile, the legal landscape is evolving as more patients and families seek accountability and compensation for adverse effects related to these medications.
In summary, there are active class actions and legal considerations for patients who developed seizures after taking certain Alzheimer’s drugs, especially those like Kisunla and Leqembi that have been linked to brain swelling, bleeding, and ARIA-related complications. These cases highlight the balance between innovative treatment approaches and patient safety, underscoring the need for careful monitoring and informed consent in Alzheimer’s disease management.
