New Study Confirms Long-Term Benefits of Leqembi in Alzheimer's Treatment

Eisai and Biogen's Alzheimer's drug Leqembi shows increased efficacy in early-stage Alzheimer's patients with continued use, according to a three-year study. Leqembi slows cognitive decline by 31% after three years, with no new safety issues. The findings were presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference.

A new study reveals that Eisai and Biogen's Alzheimer's medication, Leqembi, offers enhanced benefits for early-stage Alzheimer's patients with sustained treatment. According to three-year data presented at an Alzheimer's conference, the drug slows cognitive decline by 31% compared to untreated patients.

In initial clinical trials, Leqembi reduced cognitive decline by 27% after 18 months, leading to its approval last year. The recent study covered nearly 95% of trial participants who continued the treatment, highlighting no new safety concerns over the three-year duration. Brain swelling and bleeding, side effects commonly linked to amyloid plaque-targeting drugs, primarily occurred within the first six months.

The findings show that discontinuing treatment leads to a reappearance of Alzheimer's biomarkers and cognitive decline rates similar to those on a placebo. This research underscores the long-term benefits of Leqembi, especially when compared to Eli Lilly's Kisunla, which only targets amyloid plaques and allows treatment cessation once the plaques are removed.

(With inputs from agencies.)