New Alzheimer’s Drug Approved in Canada, Hailed as Groundbreaking

A newly approved medication, known as lecanemab, has been hailed as a groundbreaking development in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Approved by Health Canada, this is the first drug shown to slow the progression of dementia in individuals with early-stage Alzheimer’s. Dr. Michael Borrie, physician and medical director of the Aging and Memory Clinic at St. Joseph’s Health Care London, described this moment as the “most critical change” in combating Alzheimer’s in the past 25 years.

Dr. Borrie emphasized the significance of this new treatment, stating, “This is a very important moment where we finally have a medication that can actually alter the underlying disease process in the brain.” Unlike previous treatments that only addressed symptoms, lecanemab represents a significant advancement for patients experiencing mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s.

The medication, also marketed as Leqembi in Canada, has already received approval in over 50 countries. It works by reversing the effects of amyloid proteins in the brain, which form sticky clumps known as amyloid plaques that impair neurological function. Dr. Borrie noted that participants from Parkwood Hospital were involved in clinical trials, which demonstrated that the drug can delay disease progression.

According to the results of an 18-month trial, lecanemab can delay the progression of Alzheimer’s by approximately five to seven months. When administered over a four-year period, this delay can extend to about one year. Dr. Borrie remarked, “Some people may say, ‘Well, saving one year may not be worthwhile,’ but others would say, ‘If I have mild impairment or mild dementia, reducing the likelihood of me progressing from mild to moderate dementia, I’m going to have a better quality of life.’”

Despite its potential benefits, Dr. Borrie cautioned that about 85 percent of patients may not experience side effects. However, testing for the APOE4 gene is essential, as individuals with two copies of this gene are more susceptible to serious side effects, such as brain swelling or small bleeds.

The Alzheimer Society of Canada has expressed support for Health Canada’s approval of lecanemab, recognizing its significance even though it is not a cure. They noted that the medication is intended for individuals with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, stating, “This decision represents an important advancement in how we approach treatment and care.”

As the approval process unfolds, Dr. Borrie highlighted the need for infusion centres to administer the medication, as well as access to genetic testing and MRI services. He anticipates that availability in the London region will soon increase, predicting that individuals could be eligible to receive the medication within a few months. “I would think within a few months, but it will be certainly during 2026 we’ll see this medication being used,” he added.

This development not only represents a significant step forward in Alzheimer’s treatment but also brings hope to the approximately 772,000 people living with dementia across Canada.