Historic Alzheimer’s Drug Infusion Marks New Hope in Canada

Sharon Runge has made history as the first patient in Canada to receive an infusion of Lecanemab, a newly approved Alzheimer’s treatment. This milestone follows the drug’s recent approval by Health Canada, marking a significant advancement for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and their families across the nation.

Dr. Sara Mitchell, a cognitive neurologist involved in the treatment, described the event as a “historic moment,” emphasizing the potential for meaningful intervention in the progress of Alzheimer’s. Lecanemab, a monoclonal antibody, targets and removes harmful amyloid plaques from the brain. Clinical studies indicate that the drug can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s by approximately 30 percent. Dr. Mitchell stated, “Longer term data now tells us that up to four years of taking this drug extends out a one-year period of further independent living.”

In Canada, families facing the realities of Alzheimer’s often experience increased dependence on caregivers. The introduction of Lecanemab offers hope for extended independence. For Dallard Runge, Sharon’s husband, this treatment represents a chance to reclaim valuable time together. “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,” he shared. Dallard expressed that the longer they have together, the more happiness they can share.

Despite the drug’s approval, it has yet to receive a funding recommendation from the Canada Drug Administration. As a result, provincial health agencies have not provided coverage for Lecanemab, leaving families like the Runges to bear the financial burden. The cost for biweekly infusions can reach around $32,000 CAD annually, with variations depending on the patient’s weight. Dr. Mitchell advocates for equal access to this treatment, stating, “There are people that 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 opinion remains divided, with some expressing concerns about taxpayer funding for this expensive treatment. In response, Dallard urged critics to empathize with families facing Alzheimer’s. He lamented that Sharon could not have received the drug sooner, recalling how her early symptoms began emerging four years ago. Medical professionals stress that early intervention is crucial, as harmful proteins related to Alzheimer’s can accumulate in the brain for years before symptoms manifest.

Before her infusion, Sharon candidly shared her feelings about her diagnosis with CTV National News. “In my day-to-day life, I feel like I’m fine,” she said with a smile. Despite experiencing gradual short-term memory loss, her love for her husband and children remains unwavering. “I’m so fortunate to have met him,” she remarked, referring to Dallard. The Runges are now filled with hope that their shared life will be granted added longevity through this groundbreaking treatment.

As Lecanemab begins its journey in Canada, advocates stress the importance of government support to ensure all Canadians have access to this potentially life-changing drug. The next step involves exploring the drug’s effectiveness in asymptomatic patients who have detectable amyloid plaques but have not yet shown cognitive symptoms. This research could open new avenues for early treatment and intervention in Alzheimer’s disease.