Alzheimer's disease is a devastating condition that affects millions of people around the world. While there is no cure, there are treatments that can help slow the progression of the disease. Of the 141 drugs currently being tested in clinical trials, three stand out as the most promising treatments: lecanemab, donanemab, and remternetug. Let's take a closer look at each one and explore how they may be able to help those living with Alzheimer's.
Lecanemab is a monoclonal antibody that works by eliminating a sticky protein from the brain that is thought to cause Alzheimer's disease to progress. This protein, known as amyloid-beta, has been linked to cognitive decline in those with Alzheimer's. Lecanemab has been tested in two clinical trials and has shown promising results. In one trial, it was found to reduce cognitive decline by up to 30%.
In another trial, it was found to reduce amyloid plaque in the brain by up to 50%.
Donanemab
is an antibody that targets a different protein in the brain that is thought to be involved in Alzheimer's disease. This protein, known as tau, has been linked to cognitive decline in those with Alzheimer's. Donanemab has been tested in two clinical trials and has shown promising results. In one trial, it was found to reduce cognitive decline by up to 25%.In another trial, it was found to reduce amyloid plaque in the brain by up to 40%.
Remternetug
is an oral medication that works by blocking an enzyme involved in the production of amyloid plaque in the brain. This enzyme, known as BACE1, has been linked to cognitive decline in those with Alzheimer's. Remternetug has been tested in two clinical trials and has shown promising results. In one trial, it was found to reduce cognitive decline by up to 20%.In another trial, it was found to reduce amyloid plaque in the brain by up to 30%.These three treatments are showing great promise for slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease. While more research is needed before any of them can be approved for use, they offer hope for those living with this devastating condition. Clinical trials are ongoing and researchers are hopeful that these treatments will soon be available for those who need them.
