New Therapy for Early-Stage Alzheimer's - Uniklinik Freiburg Leads the Way

In a significant breakthrough for Alzheimer's disease treatment, Lecanemab (also known as Leqembi) is now available in Germany since September 1st, making it the first European Union country to offer this groundbreaking medication. Austria followed suit, with Lecanemab becoming available there since late August.

Lecanemab is a drug designed to target and help remove amyloid-beta plaques in the brain, slowing down the progression of Alzheimer's, particularly in the early stages of the disease with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia.

The treatment involves administering the medication as an intravenous infusion every two weeks, with each session lasting approximately one hour, over a period of about one and a half years. It's important to note that this treatment is suitable for people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to Alzheimer's or in the early stages of the disease.

However, complex diagnostics, possible exclusion criteria, and limited medical capacities need to be considered. An accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer's is crucial for treatment with Lecanemab, and the pathological protein deposits in the brain must be proven through tests for eligibility. Patients with a high risk of side effects are also excluded from the treatment.

Regular check-ups will take place during the therapy, including Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to detect possible side effects. Early detection of Alzheimer's is crucial for the effectiveness of Lecanemab treatment, according to Jonas Hosp, Senior Physician at the University Hospital Freiburg, where the new treatment method for Alzheimer's is being used.

While Lecanemab offers a promising new approach, it does not replace existing approaches for Alzheimer's therapy, such as cognitive training, physical activity, and social support. The number of people eligible for treatment is still uncertain, with a maximum estimate of 73,000 people nationwide.

The latest study shows that Lecanemab can delay the progression of symptoms by up to 27%, providing approximately six additional months of stability for patients. This advancement could potentially mean a significant improvement in the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's.

Moreover, new blood tests using biomarkers are expected to make the detection of Alzheimer's easier and faster in the future, further aiding in early detection and treatment. As research continues, the hope is that Lecanemab and similar treatments will continue to evolve, offering even more effective ways to combat this debilitating disease.