Exciting Breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s Research Offer New Hope for Patients


Exciting Breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s Research Offer New Hope for Patients

There is growing optimism in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease, as new research and treatments are reshaping the outlook for millions of Americans living with the condition. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several medications that not only ease symptoms but also slow the progression of Alzheimer’s — marking a turning point in dementia care.

Two Categories of Alzheimer’s Medications

Alzheimer’s drugs now fall into two main categories:

  1. Drugs that temporarily ease symptoms, helping with memory, thinking, and behavior.
  2. Drugs that change disease progression, designed to slow cognitive decline in early-stage Alzheimer’s.

While symptom-targeting drugs do not stop brain cell damage, they can help maintain quality of life for a period of time. These medications address issues such as memory loss, confusion, and behavioral changes that accompany disease progression.

The most promising advances come from disease-modifying therapies that target beta-amyloid — a protein that builds up in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s.

  • Donanemab (Kisunla™): Approved by the FDA, this anti-amyloid antibody therapy is administered via IV infusion every four weeks. Clinical studies show that it significantly slows cognitive and functional decline in individuals with early Alzheimer’s disease, including those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Common side effects include amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) and headache.
  • Lecanemab (Leqembi®): Also FDA-approved, this IV infusion therapy is given every two weeks. Like donanemab, it works by clearing beta-amyloid from the brain, reducing decline in memory and thinking. Side effects can include infusion-related reactions, ARIA, and headache.

These medications are intended for people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and require confirmation of beta-amyloid buildup in the brain.

Early diagnosis is crucial for access to treatment. Many new therapies are most effective — and sometimes only approved — for individuals in the early stages of the disease. Recognizing symptoms such as mild memory loss, confusion, or difficulty with daily tasks can prompt timely medical evaluation.

Alzheimer’s progresses through several stages: asymptomatic, mild cognitive impairment, early (mild), middle (moderate), and late (severe). Determining a patient’s stage helps doctors choose the most effective treatment options.

Lionell Martin, Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, Phone: 773.593.4211
Email: lrmartin@alz.org

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.

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