Researchers: Mild Alzheimer's Progression Reduced by 60% with 'Donanemab' Consumption

Researchers said on Tuesday that a drug from Eli Lilly works best for Alzheimer's patients if they are treated as soon as possible and before advanced symptoms appear. According to new trial data presented at the International Alzheimer's Association conference in Amsterdam, the drug 'Donanemab' slows the progression of memory and thinking problems by about one-third, but this rate increases to 60% if the drug is started when Alzheimer's is in its early stages. A comprehensive analysis of the study, which included over 1,700 patients, showed that results were less effective for older patients and those in later stages, as well as individuals with higher levels of a protein called 'tau' associated with Alzheimer's progression. Anne White, head of neuroscience at Lilly, stated, 'The findings emphasize that early onset and diagnosis can change the course of this disease.' Lilly expects the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to make a decision on approval by the end of this year. The company also stated that it will send research results to other relevant international organizations by the end of the year. Dr. Susan Colhass, executive director of research and partnerships in Alzheimer's research in the UK, noted that the data released by Lilly on Monday further confirms that removing amyloid from the brain can change the course of Alzheimer's and may help individuals if treated at the right time. Lilly previously reported that brain swelling was observed in 24% of the total group treated with this drug. Brain bleeding occurred in 31% of the group and about 14% of the placebo group. Researchers reported that the deaths of three trial patients were associated with this treatment. Dr. Liana Apostolova, a researcher in this study and a professor of Alzheimer's disease research at Indiana University School of Medicine, stated, 'These side effects should not be underestimated,' but most cases were manageable with monitoring or MRI or discontinuation of the drug. Lilly stated that the therapeutic effect of this drug compared to placebo continued throughout the 18-month trial period, even for participants who had discontinued the drug after a significant reduction in amyloid deposits. According to the Alzheimer's Association report, over 6 million Americans live with Alzheimer's, and this number is expected to rise to about 13 million by 2050. According to the World Health Organization, more than 55 million people worldwide are affected by Alzheimer's.