Eisai Announces Long-Term Data Showing Enhanced Efficacy and Reduced Side Effects with Prolonged Use of Alzheimer’s Drug Leqembi

Cailian Press, July 31 (Editor Zhou Ziyi)Latest research data released by Japanese pharmaceutical company Eisai on Tuesday (July 20) shows that its Alzheimer's disease (AD) drug Leqembi needs to be taken long-term to be more effective.

Leqembi is a new Alzheimer's disease drug jointly developed by Eisai and Biogen of the United States.

Study Results Show That After Three Years of Using Leqembi, Patients' Disease Progression Was Slowed Down; Compared to Untreated Similar Patients, the Drug Slowed Cognitive Decline by 31%, Better Than the 18-Month Clinical Data of 27%. However, the Study Also Pointed Out That Alzheimer’s Patients Will Experience Worsening Conditions After Stopping Treatment.

Eisai's Chief Clinical Officer of Deep Human Biology Learning, Dr. Lynn Kramer, noted that the incidence of adverse side effects associated with Leqembi, including brain bleeding and brain swelling, decreased after six months of treatment in patients.

The decline mentioned by Dr. Kramer is very significant. Reportedly, the side effects of these drugs on the brain have raised concerns among some in the medical community, and this is also the main reason why European drug regulators did not recommend approval of Leqembi last week.

Long-term medication

On Tuesday, Eisai announced the latest research findings at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) held in Philadelphia, USA. This represents the longest set of safety data on Leqembi to date, offering the first glimpse into the future for Alzheimer’s patients using therapies like Leqembi.

Since the drug was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last summer, the rollout of Leqembi in the United States has been less than smooth. In November of last year, Eisai also released a set of 24-month clinical data for Leqembi.

Leqembi is a monoclonal antibody that targets harmful plaques known as amyloid in the brain, aiming to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease in its early stages. The current therapy for this drug involves injections administered twice a month.

Data show that this drug needs to be used long-term; even after it has cleared amyloid plaques in patients, continued treatment remains important.

Dr. Kramer pointed out, "If you want to maintain cognitive and functional abilities for a longer time, continuing treatment is very important."

He also added that Eisai believes patients might eventually be able to switch to a less frequent and more convenient long-term dosing regimen of Leqembi after approximately 18 to 24 months of treatment.

Eisai and Biogen are seeking regulatory approval for a once-monthly Leqembi injection, with a decision expected in January next year. The two pharmaceutical companies also plan to launch a self-injectable version of Leqembi to the market, which patients can use once a week at home.

In addition, Dr. Kramer pointed out that although Leqembi is not a cure, "if you start early enough, it can give you years of benefit."

Editor: Yu Jian SF069