lecanemab

Lecanemab is a recombinant humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that targets aggregated soluble and insoluble forms of amyloid beta (Aβ), including protofibrils, in the brain. It is administered as an intravenous infusion and is indicated for the treatment of early Alzheimer's disease, specifically in patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer's who have confirmed elevated beta-amyloid pathology. Lecanemab works by binding to Aβ aggregates, reducing their accumulation and deposition in the brain, thereby slowing cognitive and functional decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The drug was developed through collaboration between Eisai and Biogen. It received accelerated FDA approval in January 2023 and full traditional approval in July 2023 based on evidence showing it slows clinical decline by approximately 27% over 18 months compared to placebo[1][2][3][5][8].

Brand names

Leqembi

Other names

lecanemab-irmb