Eli Lilly's Donanemab Shows Promise in Slowing Alzheimer's Progression
Eli Lilly, the pharmaceutical giant, has developed an experimental Alzheimer's drug, donanemab, which has shown promising results in slowing the progression of the disease. This follows the recent full approval by the FDA of a similar drug, lecanemab, marking a significant step in Alzheimer's treatment.
In a phase 3 clinical trial involving 1,736 participants with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease, donanemab demonstrated a delay in cognitive decline of about 4 months compared to those receiving a placebo. Notably, those with low or medium levels of tau protein saw an even more significant delay, approximately 8 months. Both drugs, including lecanemab, are monoclonal antibodies targeting the beta-amyloid protein, a key player in Alzheimer's disease.
Both treatments require careful patient selection and ongoing monitoring. A significant side effect is brain swelling or bleeding, with nearly 37% of donanemab recipients experiencing this, compared to 15% in the placebo group. Eli Lilly has filed for FDA approval of donanemab, with a decision expected by the end of the year.
The full approval of lecanemab and the promising results of donanemab offer hope for Alzheimer's patients and their families. As these drugs progress through regulatory processes, further understanding of their benefits and risks will be crucial for their safe and effective use.
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