Researchers urge caution around Alzheimer’s drugs While there is still uncertainty about the cause of Alzheimer’s disease, there is hope
very early Alzheimer’s and they do not have the same effect in people with moderate Alzheimer’s disease, so are only suitable for a limited number of people. “These drugs are not currently subsidised by our pharmaceutical benefits scheme, so they are expensive. They require regular MRI brain scans because of the side effects of brain swelling or bleeding.” With each infusion costing around $4,700, an 18-month course will cost about $80,000. The Federal Government is currently reviewing an application to list the drug on the pharmaceutical benefits scheme. In the meantime, Sue is encouraging the community to do what it can to reduce the impacts of the disease. “There is no single solution to preventing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, but there are lots of small things you can adopt to greatly reduce your risk,” she said. “These include, looking after your physical and mental health, regular exercise, and health checks to capture in any changes.” Your local doctor can help monitor key areas such as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, weight, hearing, vision, cognitive function, mood, mental health, and any ongoing conditions requiring regular care. Sue said there are many resources available detailing specific diets and tips for brain health, and I would encourage the community to visit the Dementia Australia website for more information at: www. dementia.org.au
for new drugs that may be effective in slowing the progress of the life-changing disease. The Therapeutic Goods Administration recently approved the use of two monoclonal antibodies targeting the amyloid protein that is present in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease. These two drugs, donanemab and lecanemab, are approved for the treatment of mild cognitive impairment and early Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s results from genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors and is characterised by amyloid plaque in the brain. These sticky clumps of protein build up between nerve cells, blocking communication and eventually killing cells, leading to memory loss and confusion. Donanemab is administered with a monthly intravenous infusion and lecanemab as a fortnightly intravenous infusion. Trials have demonstrated that these drugs can reduce the amyloid plaque in the brain and potentially improve quality-of-life and functional independency. Leading clinician/researcher Professor Sue Kurrle said the impact of the drugs is not straight forward. “Donanemab is not a cure, but studies over 18 months show that it does slow the progress of dementia by several months when compared with a placebo drug,” she said. “These drugs are for the management of
Professor Sue Kurle
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NSLHD NEWS | ISSUE 21| 14 NOVEMBER 2025
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