Seoul Asan Medical Center said it started prescribing the early Alzheimer's disease drug "Leqembi" (generic name lecanemab) on the 16th.
"Leqembi" is a new treatment for Alzheimer's disease jointly developed by the U.S.-based Biogen and Japan's Eisai. Its treatment principle involves removing amyloid beta proteins in the brain, known to be one of the main causes of Alzheimer's disease, thereby slowing the progression of the disease. International clinical research results showed that about 68% of patients had amyloid beta proteins removed after receiving "Leqembi." The rate of disease progression decreased by an average of 27%.
It received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in July of last year. In Korea, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety granted item approval in May of this year, and it was officially released last month.
The treatment is intended for patients from mild cognitive impairment caused by Alzheimer's disease to the early stages of dementia. The decision to administer the drug is made after a compatibility assessment through cognitive function tests, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, positron emission tomography (PET) scans, or tests for amyloid beta proteins through cerebrospinal fluid, along with APOE genotype testing.
The drug is administered intravenously every two weeks. The treatment period lasts a total of 18 months. Due to the nature of the disease, the goal is to inhibit progression rather than achieve complete cure. Regular MRI scans are necessary after administration to prevent cerebral edema and brain hemorrhage.
Im Jae-sung, a professor of neurology at Seoul Asan Medical Center, noted, "Leqembi" presents a significant turning point for patients with early Alzheimer's disease. Seoul Asan Medical Center will prioritize patient safety and treatment efficacy to open a new chapter in the management of Alzheimer's disease.