Leqembi, a new Alzheimer’s drug from Biogen and Eisai, promises to extend the quality of life for patients in the early stages of the disease, though it is not a cure. The treatment, which won U.S. regulatory approval in July 2023, slows memory and cognitive decline, allowing patients like Missie Meeks to maintain daily independence. Meeks, diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s ahead of her 50th birthday, started Leqembi infusions in September 2023 after overcoming logistical hurdles, such as finding a neurologist and securing insurance coverage.
Leqembi’s introduction marks a significant step forward in Alzheimer’s treatment, targeting amyloid plaques that accumulate in the brain. However, only a limited number of the nearly seven million Alzheimer’s patients in the U.S. are eligible for the treatment, as it is designed for those in the earliest stages of the disease. The drug’s rollout has been slow, complicated by issues with insurance, diagnostic tests, and access to specialized care.
Despite its promise, Leqembi is not without risks. The drug can cause brain swelling and bleeding, leading some doctors to approach its use with caution. Furthermore, patients often face months-long waits for neurologist appointments and must undergo rigorous testing, including PET and MRI scans, to determine eligibility. Additionally, securing coverage for the $26,500 annual treatment remains a challenge for many, particularly for those not yet eligible for Medicare.
Yet, for patients like Meeks, the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Her experience with Leqembi has stabilized her cognitive decline, allowing her to continue performing everyday tasks. Experts believe that as the healthcare system adjusts to accommodate this new treatment, access will improve. Eisai and Biogen are also developing more convenient delivery methods, such as a monthly maintenance dose or weekly subcutaneous injections, to ease the burden on patients and caregivers.
While it may be too soon to measure the long-term efficacy of Leqembi, patients like Meeks are hopeful it will provide them with more time to enjoy life and maintain independence.
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