Two Alzheimer’s drugs help patients live independently at home for longer periods

A recent study published in the Alzheimer’s Association journal revealed that two widely touted Alzheimer’s drugs, lecanemab (Leqembi) and donanemab (Kisunla), have shown promising results in enabling patients to live independently in their homes for longer periods. These FDA-approved medications work by removing amyloid beta plaques from the brains of individuals with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, potentially slowing cognitive decline.

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis conducted a study involving 282 Alzheimer’s patients to analyze the effects of these treatments. The study found that patients who took lecanemab were able to extend their time living independently at home by an additional 10 months, while donanemab enabled them to live independently for eight more months.

On average, patients with mild symptoms could expect to live independently for 29 months without treatment, 39 months with lecanemab, and 37 months with donanemab. These results were based on patients with very mild symptoms at the start of treatment.

Senior author of the study, Sarah Hartz, MD, PhD, emphasized the significance of these findings in helping patients and their families make informed decisions about treatment options. Hartz noted that the study provides a way to translate clinical trial findings into meaningful outcomes for patients, highlighting the potential benefits of these medications in prolonging independence.

However, it is important to consider the risks and limitations associated with these drugs. While lecanemab and donanemab have shown the ability to extend periods of independence for Alzheimer’s patients, they do not stop or reverse the disease. Additionally, these treatments are most beneficial for individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s.

Dr. Chris Vercammen, a board-certified internal medicine physician specializing in geriatrics and palliative care, emphasized the importance of discussing the potential benefits and risks of these medications with a doctor. Serious side effects, such as brain swelling and bleeding, as well as financial costs, should be taken into consideration when considering treatment options.

The study findings underscore the importance of starting treatment early to maximize the potential benefits for Alzheimer’s patients. While these medications have shown promise in extending periods of independence, it is crucial for individuals to have thorough discussions with their healthcare providers to determine the best course of action.

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