New drug found to slow down early Alzheimer's disease symptoms

It's what sufferers have been praying for

Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia, and the leading cause of death for women. Image: iStock

A new drug has proven to slow the progression of early Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, which is the most common form of dementia.

 

 

A landmark study into Alzheimer’s disease has found a new drug called donanemab slows cognitive and functional decline in people with early symptoms of the degenerative illness.

What’s more, the earlier treatment begins, the greater the impact.

The global trial, which involved 1700 participants over more than a decade, discovered that the drug from pharmaceutical manufacturer Eli Lilly slowed the disease’s progression by 35 per cent in patients.

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How does Donanemab work?

It works by inducing antibodies designed to attach to and clear amyloid plaques in the brain, which can contribute to inflammation and damage to brain cells.

It’s these plaques that lead to cognitive decline.

This is incredible news for our more than 400,000 sufferers, their loved ones and those with a predisposition to the degenerative disease.

Over 400,000 Australians suffer from dementia. Image: Getty

Dementia Australia CEO, Maree McCabe AM said the drug will provide tremendous hope.

“With dementia the second leading cause of death of Australians, and the leading cause of death of Australian women, we welcome any steps taken towards improving the lives of people living with dementia, their families and carers,” she said after the research was presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Amsterdam.

“This research also highlights the importance of early diagnosis so people can access treatment and support as soon as possible.”  

McCabe said now’s the time to eliminate the stigma that surrounds the disease, so we can get on the front foot with this new treatment.

“We know the earlier people access support and services the better their health, care and lifestyle outcomes.” 

Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM said the drug provides tremendous hope. Image: iStock

Tori Brown, Eli Lilly’s Australia and New Zealand general manager agreed and wants more to be done on a national level to break down barriers to ensure timely diagnosis.

“This must include practical guidelines and easy-to-access pathways for the detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, alongside timely approval and reimbursement of proven therapies like Donanemab," she said.

“Our company is keen to work as a policy partner to address the obstacles to efficient and effective dementia assessment, diagnosis, care and treatment in Australia…and hopefully turn the tide on one of the greatest health issues of our time.”

So, what’s next? Donanemab will need to be approved by the Goods Administration (TGA) for use in Australia. “It also comes with possible side effects that need to be carefully monitored by health professionals,” McCabe added.

Donanemab will need to be approved by the Goods Administration. Image: iStock

Bill Yeates, a dementia advocate who was diagnosed with younger-onset-dementia in 2019, called the results a “ray of hope.” 

“For me, it’s that ‘ray of hope’ that I believed would happen one day, where people living with dementia can have a future. One where you can lead a better life, one that you value.”  

Originally published as New drug found to slow down early Alzheimer's disease symptoms