What does the new Alzheimer's drug lecanemab do?

Lecanemab (also known as BAN2401) is another experimental drug for Alzheimer's disease that is currently being studied in clinical trials. Like Aduhelm, lecanemab is a monoclonal antibody that targets beta-amyloid, a protein that forms sticky plaques in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease. However, unlike Aduhelm, which is given through monthly infusions, lecanemab is administered through intravenous infusion every four weeks for up to two years. In clinical trials, lecanemab has shown promising results in reducing beta-amyloid plaques in the brain and slowing cognitive decline in people with early-stage Alzheimer's disease.

Lecanemab is still in the investigational stage, and more research is needed to determine its safety and effectiveness in treating Alzheimer's disease. The drug is currently being tested in Phase 3 clinical trials, which are expected to be completed in 2022.

If the results of these trials are positive, Lecanemab could potentially become another treatment option for people with Alzheimer's disease. However, it's important to note that the FDA has not yet approved lecanemab or any other drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease besides Aduhelm, which has been a subject of controversy due to its high cost and limited evidence of effectiveness.