Canada Administers Historic Alzheimer’s Drug Infusion for First Time

For the first time in Canadian history, a patient has received an infusion of Lecanemab, a newly approved drug aimed at combating Alzheimer’s disease. Sharon Runge is the first recipient of this treatment, which was recently sanctioned by Health Canada. According to Dr. Sara Mitchell, a cognitive neurologist, this moment marks a significant advancement for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and their families.

Lecanemab is a monoclonal antibody designed to target and eliminate harmful amyloid plaque in the brain, a key contributor to the progression of Alzheimer’s. Research indicates that the drug can slow the disease’s progression by approximately 30 percent. “Longer-term data now shows that taking this drug for up to four years can extend a one-year period of independent living,” Dr. Mitchell explained.

As Canada becomes the last of the G7 nations to approve Lecanemab, families like the Runges face challenges regarding treatment costs. The drug has been hailed for its potential to provide a degree of independence for patients, which is crucial as many individuals with Alzheimer’s increasingly rely on their loved ones for support.

Dallard Runge, Sharon’s husband, expressed optimism about the drug’s impact on their lives. “In the last year or so, Sharon was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. My hope is that this drug delays the further onset of the disease for us. The longer we have together, the more happiness we’ll get to share,” he remarked.

Despite its approval, Lecanemab has not yet received a funding recommendation from the Canada Drug Administration. Consequently, provincial health agencies have not provided coverage, leaving families responsible for the full cost of the infusions. The estimated expense for biweekly infusions is around $32,000 annually, varying based on individual patient weight.

Dr. Mitchell emphasized the need for equitable access to this treatment across Canada, stating, “There are people you’ll see every day on the street who have this disease and who want to keep living independently. That’s who this drug is for.”

Public sentiment regarding funding for the drug has been mixed, with some taxpayers hesitant to support the high costs involved. Responding to these concerns, Dallard suggested, “I’d say they should walk in our shoes.” He voiced a wish that his wife could have received the treatment sooner, noting that she began displaying early symptoms of Alzheimer’s four years ago.

Medical professionals stress the importance of early intervention, as the troublesome proteins associated with Alzheimer’s can accumulate in the brain long before symptoms manifest. Future research aims to evaluate whether Lecanemab can effectively prevent the disease in asymptomatic patients who have the harmful plaque but have not yet shown any signs of cognitive decline.

Moments before receiving her first infusion, Sharon shared her thoughts with CTV National News, expressing her struggle to comprehend her diagnosis. “In my day-to-day life, I feel like I’m fine,” she said with a smile, despite her husband noting a gradual decline in her short-term memory.

Sharon’s devotion to her family remains unwavering. “I’m so fortunate to have met him,” she said of Dallard, “he’s the most important thing in my life.” The Runges now hold onto hope that this groundbreaking treatment will allow them to cherish more time together in their journey with Alzheimer’s.