New Alzheimer’s drug hailed as turning point

The new drug, donanemab, is being hailed as a turning point in the fight against Alzheimer’s, following an international trial which confirmed it slows cognitive decline.

The antibody medicine helps in the early stages of the disease by clearing a protein that builds up in the brains of sufferers of this type of dementia.

Although not a cure for the disease, charities say the results mark a new era where Alzheimer’s can be treated.

The UK’s drugs watchdog has begun to assess it for possible use within the NHS.

During the trials, the drug appeared to slow the pace of the disease by around a third, allowing people to retain more of their everyday lives and tasks, such as enjoying a hobby and making meals.

Professor Giles Hardingham from the UK Dementia Research Institute, said “It is terrific to see these results published in full today.  We have waited a long time for Alzheimer’s treatments, so it’s really encouraging to see tangible progress continuing to gather pace in the field.”

Dr Susan Kohlhaas from Alzheimer’s Research UK, said “Today’s announcement marks another milestone.  Thanks to decades of research, the outlook for dementia and its impact on people and society is finally changing, and we’re entering a new era where Alzheimer’s disease could become treatable.”

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Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (jacquelinevance@chadlaw.co.uk), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

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