Scientists are celebrating a major breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease with the development of a drug by Eli Lilly that can slow its progression by up to 60%. This development is being hailed as a defining moment in dementia research, offering hope to patients during what experts are calling the “decade of Alzheimer’s”. The drug, called donanemab, has shown significant promise in delaying the worsening of symptoms in individuals with this type of dementia. Additionally, it has settled the long-standing debate over the role of amyloid plaques in the disease’s development.
Donanemab, administered through intravenous infusion once a month, is a monoclonal antibody designed to target and clear the toxic build-up of amyloid plaque in the brain. By binding to these plaques, the drug stimulates immune cells to remove them. Clinical trials have demonstrated that donanemab can slow cognitive decline by 35% and halt mental decline for over a year in approximately half of the patients.
Eli Lilly has already sought regulatory approval from the FDA and plans to apply in the UK within the next six months. Pending approval, patients may begin receiving treatment with donanemab in as little as 18 months. The drug has shown to be most effective in individuals under the age of 75 in the early stages of the disease. In a study involving nearly 1,800 individuals with early-stage Alzheimer’s, those receiving donanemab experienced a 60% slowing of decline compared to those receiving a placebo. Furthermore, individuals with low or medium levels of a protein called tau, which is associated with Alzheimer’s, saw a 35% reduction in clinical decline when treated with the drug.
Dr. Richard Oakley, from Alzheimer’s Society, called this a turning point in the fight against Alzheimer’s, stating that it proves it is possible to slow down the disease. He envisions a future where Alzheimer’s can be managed as a long-term condition, allowing individuals to effectively manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. While donanemab has shown significant benefits in delaying symptom progression and enabling patients to maintain daily activities for longer, there are serious side effects to consider, including brain swelling and bleeds, as well as three deaths linked to the medication. As a result, it is crucial for patients to be fully informed about the risks associated with treatment so they can make informed decisions.
Overall, this breakthrough in Alzheimer’s research offers hope for millions of individuals affected by the disease, bringing us one step closer to effectively managing its symptoms and improving patients’ quality of life.
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