Alzheimer’s is a disease which affects mostly elderly people and results in confusion, memory problems and personality changes. It can be difficult for both the patient and their loved ones, since the patient can no longer do all of the things they used to be able to do.

According to the NHS, Alzheimer’s affects up to 1 in 14 people over the age of 65.

Until now, there have been few treatments for Alzheimer’s. Recently, a drug named Donanemab has been suggested for treating Alzheimer’s, with the aim of slowing down the disease.

What Is Donanemab?

This drug is known as a monoclonal antibody. It binds to a type of protein called an amyloid. In Alzheimer’s patients, amyloids build up in the brain, eventually causing the symptoms associated with the disease. Therefore, the aim of this drug is to stop this build-up of amyloids and prevent the disease from getting a hold.

Is Donanemab Available in the UK?

Unfortunately, Donanemab is not licensed for use in the UK. The regulating body, NICE, decided not to license it at this stage because of the costs vs benefit analysis that they have carried out.

At present, the only licensed drug to treat Alzheimer’s in the UK is Lecanemab. It is especially important with Alzheimer’s patients that safe handling of medication takes place, since they may not be able to manage this independently. For staff or family members who are carers for Alzheimer’s patients, courses which provide a grounding in administering of medicines can be essential. You can visit Tidal Training for more information.

Is Donanemab Effective?

Research so far has shown that Donanemab can be quite effective in treating Alzheimer’s, provided it is commenced in the early stages of the disease. It can slow down progression rather than cure.

The most positive thing that we can take from this news is that research is ongoing into cures and medicines for Alzheimer’s, and the development of Donanemab means that we are one step closer to being able to treat this illness.