FDA Approves 2 Alzheimer's Drugs Targeting Amyloid Plaques
Updated
Updated · HuffPost · Jun 14
FDA Approves 2 Alzheimer's Drugs Targeting Amyloid Plaques
1 articles · Updated · HuffPost · Jun 14
Summary
Two FDA-approved drugs — Aduhelm and Leqembi — are now available for Alzheimer’s patients, with both aimed at amyloid beta plaque buildup in the brain.
Leqembi has shown in clinical trials that it can slow cognitive decline in some patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s, while Aduhelm remains controversial despite studies suggesting benefit in certain cases.
6.7 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, and neurologists say earlier diagnosis can improve quality of life through medication, lifestyle changes and support services.
Doctors say less-recognized early warning signs can appear before major memory loss, including word-finding trouble, difficulty navigating familiar routes, mood changes, noise sensitivity and altered taste or smell.
After age 65, physicians recommend simple cognitive screening when symptoms appear, noting some causes of memory loss are reversible and about 1 in 9 dementia cases may be linked to age-related hearing loss.