A new drug could prove to be a major breakthrough in Alzeimher's treatment.
Researchers trialled Donanemab on a global scale to assess its ability in fighting the neurodegenerative disease. The treatment has been trialled exclusively on Alzeimher's patients and not other dementia types.
Trials show the drug can help prevent cognitive decline in the early stages of the disease. The major breakthrough paves the way for the drug's eventual introduction in wider society.
The Alzeimher's Society of Ireland has hailed the drug as a positive step forward in treating the disease. They confirmed the European Medicines Agency is assessing the safety of another drug known as Lecanemab, which can also delay mental decline amongst patients.
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Research and Policy Manager Dr Laura O’Philbin said: "The data published this afternoon indicates that Donanemab is another credible treatment option that can alter the course of Alzheimer’s Disease and slow its progression. This is a further scientific leap in the development of treatment options for Alzheimer’s Disease, and that is incredibly heartening."
However, Dr O'Philbin warned that drugs such as Lecanemab and Donanemab should not be viewed as cures for Alzeimher's. The drugs only target the disease in its early stages, meaning they will not be suitable for a large portion of patients.
American pharmaceutical company presented evidence from the trials this week. It is understood that scientists will now seek FDA approval so the drug can be administered in the US.
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