On July 6, 2023, the FDA approved Lecanemab (marketed as Leqembi). The drug works by reducing amyloid plaques that form in the brain, a defining pathophysiological feature of the disease and should be initiated in patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia stage of Alzheimer’s disease.
Patient advocacy organizations hailed it as the first-of-its-kind traditional treatment for early-stage Alzheimer’s.
The historic development brings a treatment option and renewed hope for continued innovation to the millions of patients affected by this devastating condition, particularly women and communities of color who face disproportionate rates of the disease.
As a center of excellence UW Medicine is currently reviewing processes in preparation to offer this treatment. The effort is complicated because it entails so many areas, including pharmacies, fusion centers, Memory Brain & Wellness, research coordinators, etc. In addition to logistics, NSI Marketing and Communications are also in discussion on managing announcements and information for an eager population.
We will be sure to keep you informed of our launch and provide information and contacts you can share with patients who have questions.
FDA Converts Novel Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment to Traditional Approval | FDA