Gates Foundation study highlights global impact of neurological diseases

NeuroForm Insights:

https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/news/bbc-panorama-captures-the-promise-and-challenges-of-new-alzheimers-treatments/

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about New Alzheimer's Treatments Featured on BBC Panorama

1. What are the new treatments for Alzheimer's discussed in the BBC Panorama episode?

   - The BBC Panorama episode titled "Alzheimer’s: A Turning Point?" discusses two new breakthrough treatments for Alzheimer's disease, lecanemab and donanemab. These treatments have shown promise in slowing down the progression of the early stages of Alzheimer's disease[1].

2. Are lecanemab and donanemab currently available for prescription in the UK?

   - As of the airing of the BBC Panorama episode, neither lecanemab nor donanemab has a license to be prescribed in the UK outside of clinical trials. Decisions regarding their licensing are expected in the coming months[1].

3. What has been the experience of individuals participating in the clinical trials for these drugs?

   - The episode features individuals with Alzheimer’s who are participating in clinical trials for these drugs. For example, a participant named Dawn from Hampshire shared her hope that donanemab would slow the progression of her condition, allowing her to maintain her desired level of functionality and continue engaging in activities she enjoys[1].

4. What are the potential impacts of these new treatments on patients with Alzheimer's?

   - The new treatments, lecanemab and donanemab, have been shown to slow the progression of Alzheimer's in its early stages. This could potentially allow patients to preserve their cognitive functions and quality of life for a longer period[1]. In our view this could prove to be important that it first appears if the improvements in diagnostic detection technologies we highlighted recently allow pre-symptomatic treatment with these compounds, as this might then offer more effective delaying or even preventative use of these compounds.

5. When can we expect a decision on the licensing of these new Alzheimer's treatments?

   - Decisions on the licensing of lecanemab and donanemab in the UK are anticipated in the near future, although specific dates have not been provided. These decisions will determine if and how these drugs can be prescribed outside of clinical trials[1].

If you found this FAQ helpful and wish to learn more about our insights into Alzheimer's and dementia care, please register on our website at https://www.neuroform-education.co.uk/blog, or request a download of one of our latest briefing papers. Additionally, feel free to connect with me directly on LinkedIn for further discussions and updates: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenrthomas/.

Citations:

[1] https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/news/bbc-panorama-captures-the-promise-and-challenges-of-new-alzheimers-treatments/

[2] https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/brain-health-check-in/stay-sharp-questions/

[3] https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/news/dementia-explained/

[4] https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/dementia-information/need-to-know-more/frequently-asked-questions/

[5] https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/news/your-brain-health-questions-answered/

[6] https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/about-us/how-we-do-it/our-supporters/supporter-care/your-questions-answered/