New Alzheimer’s Drugs Offer Hope
Two Alzheimer’s drugs—lecanemab and donanemab—are showing remarkable results in slowing disease progression, yet Canadians cannot access them. Patients and care partners are frustrated as Canada remains the only G7 country to withhold approval.
“I think I either have to wait or go to the United States,” said Morley, diagnosed with mild Alzheimer’s three years ago. “That’s the dilemma we are in.”
Early Detection Is Critical
Morley discovered his diagnosis by chance after a ski accident led to a PET scan, revealing amyloids in his brain, the protein linked to Alzheimer’s.
Early intervention, lifestyle adjustments, and monitoring remain crucial. Morley now exercises regularly, eats well, sleeps properly, and avoids alcohol to maintain his cognitive health.
How the Drugs Work
Lecanemab and donanemab remove amyloids from the brain, slowing cognitive decline. Clinical trials showed a roughly 30% slower rate of deterioration, extending independent living by five to six months.
“These therapies bring hope because they modify what’s happening in the brain,” said Dr. Sara Mitchell, neurologist at Sunnybrook Hospital. “They don’t cure Alzheimer’s but intervene where previous treatments only managed symptoms.”
Availability and Approval Delays
Lecanemab has been approved in 44 countries, including the United States, Australia, and Japan. Canada, however, has yet to authorize its use after more than two years of review. Health Canada states it only approves medications when benefits outweigh risks.
Side effects include nausea, headaches, and, rarely, brain swelling or bleeding. Clinical trials reported a few treatment-related deaths, highlighting the need for careful monitoring.
High Costs and Limited Access
Both drugs are expensive: in the U.S., lecanemab costs $26,500 per year and donanemab $32,000, with additional monitoring costs for IV infusions and frequent brain scans.
Experts stress that these drugs are for early-stage patients only, and some health authorities, like the UK’s NICE, question whether the benefits justify the high costs.
Patient Perspectives
Nick Lagace, whose mother has advanced Alzheimer’s, sees potential for future patients. “Any new treatment gives that glimmer of hope,” he said, noting the emotional toll of the disease on families.
For Morley, early action is key. “Talk about it, get help early, and involve your family—these steps matter in how well you’ll do.”
A Shift in Alzheimer’s Care
Dr. Mitchell emphasizes prevention, education, and early intervention alongside new therapies. Modifiable risk factors include inactivity, smoking, alcohol use, social isolation, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and untreated sensory impairments.
“Many think of dementia only in its last stage,” Mitchell said. “We need to focus on early signs and proactive measures to protect brain health.”
The Alzheimer Society of Canada predicts nearly one million Canadians with dementia by 2030, making access to new treatments and early intervention critical for the aging population.
Innovative treatments are bringing hope to Alzheimer’s patients, but access and awareness remain urgent priorities.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire Now for the latest updates on health and medical breakthroughs.
