Experts believe the two drugs could be ‘the beginning of the end’ for the disease after initial trial results shown to slow dementia progression
Scientists are set to reveal crucial findings tomorrow that could potentially revolutionize the battle against Alzheimer’s disease. The initial results of a second drug, which has shown promising results in slowing dementia progression, have been hailed by families affected by the disease. This drug is the first of many undergoing trials that seem to interrupt the physical processes responsible for memory loss and other symptoms. The manufacturer, Eli Lilly, claims that their drug, donanemab, slowed mental decline by 36% by targeting a brain protein called tau.
It was just two weeks ago when TV presenter Fiona Phillips revealed her diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 62. She is now participating in a clinical trial for a third drug. Dr Richard Oakley, associate director at the Alzheimer’s Society, expressed optimism, saying, “After 20 years with no new Alzheimer’s disease drugs in the UK, we now have two potential new drugs in 12 months…this could be the beginning of the end for Alzheimer’s disease.”
The proteins tau and amyloid have long been found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, and researchers suspect they play a role in causing the devastating symptoms of the disease. A trial conducted last year with another drug called lecanemab showed a 27% reduction in symptom progression by blocking the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain. Experts hope that future drugs targeting tau and amyloid could further slow the loss of memory and thinking ability in Alzheimer’s patients.
In May, Eli Lilly announced positive phase three results from their trial of donanemab for the treatment of early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease. Experts from various institutions, including the NHS, will begin studying the detailed findings tomorrow to determine whether the benefits outweigh the potential side effects. Brain swelling and bleeding are considered risk factors associated with such drugs. The trial results will be presented today at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Amsterdam. If approved in the UK, it could take 12 to 18 months for regulators to potentially license donanemab as safe.
Hilary Evans, co-chair of the Government’s national Dementia Mission, expressed concerns that the new drugs may initially only be available to those who can afford private healthcare. She believes systemic changes are needed if the drugs are to be widely accessible within the next five to ten years.
After years of failed trials, these two drugs are the first to show successful delay in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. If approved in the UK, they could potentially benefit 720,000 people, including those with mild Alzheimer’s and mild cognitive impairment, a precursor to full-blown Alzheimer’s. In 2019, it was estimated that there were around 900,000 people living with dementia in the UK, and this number is projected to rise to 1.6 million by 2040. Every year, over 200,000 people are diagnosed with the condition.
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, with early symptoms including memory problems, thinking difficulties, and changes in mood. Vascular dementia is the second most common type, with early symptoms often involving problems with concentration. Fiona Phillips is currently participating in trials for a drug called miridesap, which targets amyloid deposits. To qualify for the trials, she had to undergo tests to demonstrate that her Alzheimer’s was at a mild stage, including answering questions about the current month.
The breakthrough drug has brought hope to many families affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Catriona Shepherd, who was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s in 2014 at the age of 58, expressed excitement about the new drugs. Her husband, David, explained that the available drugs at the time only addressed the symptoms of the disease, not the underlying cause. He believes that if these new drugs had been available earlier, he and his wife could have had more meaningful time together. Although these drugs came too late for Catriona, David hopes that they can help future generations and eliminate the terrible suffering caused by the disease.
In conclusion, the unveiling of these crucial trial findings brings hope to millions living with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones. The potential breakthrough in slowing down the progression of the disease could mark the beginning of a new era in Alzheimer’s research and treatment. However, further research and thorough evaluation of the benefits and risks are necessary before these drugs can be widely accessible to those who are suffering.