2023-07-23 19:02:00
New Alzheimer’s Drug Shows Promising Results in Slowing Down Disease Progression
By Nadja Austel
Published: 07/23/2023, 19:02
Updated: 07/23/2023, 19:02
Frankfurt – A recent study conducted by US pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly has revealed that a new Alzheimer’s drug, donanemab, significantly slows the progression of the disease. The company has previously announced its intention to seek global approval for the drug following positive initial results. While experts hail this as a major breakthrough, they also caution about potential side effects.
The study, conducted in collaboration with several universities, involved over 1700 participants. Those who received donanemab showed a 35% reduction in cognitive impairment compared to those who received a placebo. The treatment involved a monthly infusion of donanemab into the bloodstream for a period of 18 months.
Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, as evidenced by the latest findings. The first signs of Alzheimer’s can appear up to nine years before an official diagnosis, making early intervention crucial. Researchers have identified two forms of protein deposits in the brain as a characteristic feature of the disease. Donanemab, the active ingredient in the new drug, targets these beta-amyloid deposits and has been shown to reduce plaque by an average of 84% after 18 months, compared to a 1% decrease in the placebo group.
The potential slowing down of cognitive decline by 35% could enable individuals with Alzheimer’s to continue performing everyday tasks such as shopping, managing finances, and household chores. This breakthrough could significantly improve the quality of life for the estimated 30 million people worldwide suffering from Alzheimer’s, according to the World Health Organization. In Germany alone, around two-thirds of the 1.8 million people with dementia are affected by Alzheimer’s, according to the German Alzheimer Society.
The positive results of the study have sparked optimism among researchers. The Alzheimer’s Research Institute and the Alzheimer’s Society charity view the success of donanemab and other newly developed drugs as the beginning of a new era, where Alzheimer’s could become a treatable disease, much like asthma or diabetes.
However, the study also revealed that a small number of participants experienced serious side effects, including brain swelling. Additionally, three deaths in the donanemab group and one death in the placebo group were classified as “treatment-related.” This underscores the need for further research to minimize the risks associated with the drug.
Despite these challenges, the results of the study represent a significant advancement in Alzheimer’s research. Dr. Richard Oakley, Associate Research Director of the Alzheimer’s Society, referred to the findings as a “game-changer” in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Drugs like donanemab pave the way for a future where Alzheimer’s could be managed as a long-term condition, allowing individuals to live fulfilling lives despite the disease.
It is important to note that this article provides general information about Alzheimer’s and should not be used for self-diagnosis, treatment, or medication. Individuals are advised to consult with their healthcare professionals for personalized advice.]
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