Indianapolis, Indiana – The Food and Drug Administration has recently given approval for a new Alzheimer’s drug developed by Eli Lilly, offering hope to those affected by the disease. Named Kisunla, the drug has shown promise in slowing down the decline in memory and cognitive abilities in individuals through clinical trials.
The medication, which is a monoclonal antibody infusion administered every four weeks, has been cleared for use in adults with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. By targeting amyloid in the brain, a key characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease, Kisunla presents a new treatment option for patients.
Dr. Ronald Petersen, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic, emphasized the significance of the FDA approval, as it provides another tool in combating the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s disease. With an estimated 6.7 million Americans aged 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s in 2023, the need for effective treatments is more critical than ever.
Results from a late-stage clinical trial involving 1,700 participants showed that Kisunla slowed the progression of Alzheimer’s by approximately 35% after 18 months, compared to a placebo. The drug’s impact was measured using the clinical dementia rating scale, focusing on aspects like memory, orientation, judgment, and personal care.
Similar to other drugs in its category, Kisunla does come with potential risks, including brain swelling and bleeding. While most cases during the trial were mild, three deaths were attributed to the drug. Yet, the benefits of the medication in slowing down Alzheimer’s progression outweigh the risks, as demonstrated by the FDA’s approval.
Moving forward, Kisunla is set to become the second approved Alzheimer’s drug of its kind, following Leqmebi. The drug offers hope for patients like Pat Bishara, a participant in the clinical trials, who has seen positive effects from the treatment. Bishara’s experience highlights the impact of innovative medications in improving quality of life for those with Alzheimer’s.
As the pharmaceutical landscape continues to evolve, the approval of Kisunla represents a step forward in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. With Medicare expected to cover the cost of the drug, patients may soon have access to this groundbreaking treatment option. The medical community is optimistic about the potential of Kisunla to make a difference in the lives of those living with Alzheimer’s disease.