Millions More Europeans With Alzheimer's Without Access to Drug That Slows Cognitive Deterioration
The situation of Alzheimer's in Europe is alarming, with around 1 million people affected who do not have access to lecanemab, a drug that could slow the progression of the disease in its early stages. This “infirmad del olvido” continues to grow, with around 40,000 new cases diagnosed annually in Spain, according to the Spanish Society of Neurology (SEN).
Historical context
Alzheimer's was first identified more than a century ago, and while there have been advances in understanding how the disease progresses, access to effective treatments remains a challenge. Lecanemab, which is used in the early stages of cognitive decline, could have changed the course of life for many people, but is currently unavailable to European patients.
The Verdict of the European Medicines Agency
In July, the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) issued a negative opinion on the approval of lecanemab, developed by Biogen and Eisai. Although the EMA did not re-approve the drug in its final form, its evaluation limited its use in Europe, even though other countries, such as the United States, Canada and Japan, have already approved it.
Medical concerns
Pascual Sánchez, a neurologist and scientific director of the Fundación Centro de Investigación de Enfermedades Neurológicas (CIEN), laments that, after more than two decades without new therapies, Europe is missing the opportunity to offer a solution to patients in the temporary stages of Alzheimer's. Despite concerns about serious side effects, such as brain imaging abnormalities that can be fatal, many doctors believe that the drug's benefits outweigh the risks.
Efficacy of Lecanemab
Studies have shown that lecanemab can slow cognitive decline in 27% of cases over 18 months of treatment. Although this effect is considered modest, it has a significant impact on the quality of life of patients. In addition, the drug reduces starch deposits in the brain by 50% during the first year of treatment.
Future of treatment
Specialists emphasize the importance of clinical experience in the use of lecanemab. To ensure the safety and efficacy of the drug, it is essential to take pharmacovigilance that allows to regulate its use and supervise patients. The possibility of restrictions of use, as in the United Kingdom, could be a solution that would benefit those with less risk of side effects.
Additional challenges
Aside from the drug approval, there is also concern about the cost of the treatment and its inclusion in health care coverage in Europe. Currently, available treatments for Alzheimer's only eliminate the symptoms, without changing the disease itself. With advances in drugs such as lecanemab and donanemab, the door is opening to a new era in the treatment of Alzheimer's.
Conclusion
Limited access to effective treatments for Alzheimer's in Europe is of grave concern to millions of patients and their families. The medical community continues to advocate for the approval of lecanemab and other innovative pharmacists, hoping to change the pace of this devastating disease.
