The era of treatment FDA approves medication for Alzheimer’s treatment

        On July 2, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Eli Lilly’s Kisunla (donanemab) for the treatment of people living with early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease, which includes mild cognitive impairment and the early dementia stage of Alzheimer’s disease, with confirmed amyloid plaques. Kisunla is a monoclonal antibody that targets amyloid plaques in the brain.
        With the FDA approval of Kisunla, there are now multiple FDA approved treatments that change the course of Alzheimer’s disease in a meaningful way for people in the early stages of the disease. For individuals eligible for this treatment, this could mean more time for independence, family and friends, and fully participating in daily life.
        People living with early-stage Alzheimer’s or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) interested in exploring Kisunla or any other treatment should have a conversation with their doctor about treatment options, and the potential risks and benefits of available treatments. It is important that clinicians and health care systems are informed and prepared to help the individuals who could benefit. Americans living with Alzheimer’s deserve the opportunity to assess if an FDA-approved treatment is right for them, just like people with cancer, heart disease and HIV/AIDS. 
        The FDA’s approval of Kisunla is another significant advance in treatment for millions of people living with Alzheimer’s and their families. These new treatments are not a cure, but they give people more time at or near their full abilities to participate in daily life, remain independent and make health care decisions. The arrival of these new treatments underscores the importance of early detection and diagnosis to ensure individuals receive the most benefit at
the earliest point possible.
        For more information, help, and/or resources, reach out to the Northwest Ohio Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association at 419-537-1999.
        Pamela Myers is the Senior Director Programs for the Northwest and Central Ohio Chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association.