Alzheimer's therapy approved for the first time

The team led by neurologists Professor Joseph Cla&l;en and Professor Dorothee Saur expects the first therapies to be available as early as the summer. Lecanemab cannot reverse the brain damage that occurs in Alzheimer's disease, but it can slow down the progression of the disease. However, treatment requires an early and accurate diagnosis, as the drug is only effective in certain early forms and detection must be carried out using cerebrospinal fluid analyses or imaging techniques such as brain PET. The therapy itself requires a great deal of logistical effort, as it involves bi-weekly infusions and regular MRI checks. In addition, genetic testing for certain risk genes is mandatory in Europe. Initial training courses have already been held at Leipzig University Hospital in collaboration with the neuroradiology department to prepare medical staff for the demanding therapy. It is still unclear whether further guidelines for the application will be published, but the team is optimistic that the new Alzheimer's therapy will be available within a few months.

Press release from "Leipzig University Hospital" dated 16 April 2025