'On the cusp of a revolution' in treating Alzheimer's, new drug approved for use in Israel
The United States Food and Drug Administration recently approved a new anti-Alzheimer’s drug Leqembi, which is expected to bring hope to patients who suffer from the disease in many parts of the world, including Israel.
Dementia is a growing problem across the globe, especially in advanced societies with aging populations.
"Leqembi is the first amyloid beta-directed antibody to be converted from an accelerated approval to a traditional approval for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The drug works by reducing amyloid plaques that form in the brain, a defining pathophysiological feature of the disease," the FDA said in an official statement.
Preliminary trials of Leqembi reportedly show indications that it reduces the effects of Alzheimer’s Disease by 30%.
Prof. Ramit Ravona-Springer, director of the Psychogeriatric and Memory Clinic at the Sheba Medical Center near Tel Aviv, explained a theory behind the cause of dementia.
"One of the leading theories regarding the cause of dementia and Alzheimer’s is the sticky amyloid plaques deposits in the brain which lead to a degenerative process and eventually to symptoms.”
Israel Neurological Association President David Tanne welcomed the medical advances in combating dementia and Alzheimer’s.
"This is exciting news and a breakthrough in the treatment of serious illnesses that had no cure and we are on the cusp of a revolution in the field," Tanne said.
"This is a call to doctors and HMOs to invest more resources than are currently available in an early diagnosis of patients showing a diminished cognitive capacity, and if the drug receives approval from the Health Ministry, it will provide hope for patients and their families," the professor added.
There is still much about Alzheimer’s disease that is unknown. In February, Israeli scientists from Ben Gurion University announced the development of a reportedly groundbreaking approach to treating Alzheimer’s.
The All Israel News Staff is a team of journalists in Israel.
