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Eisai and Biogen Introduce LEQEMBI® IQLIK™ for Early Alzheimer's Disease

In a major advancement for Alzheimer's care, Eisai Co., Ltd. and Biogen Inc. have announced the U.S. availability of LEQEMBI® IQLIK™ (lecanemab-irmb), a subcutaneous injection for the maintenance treatment of early Alzheimer's disease (AD). This innovative option allows patients to administer the medication at home after an initial intravenous treatment phase.

A New Chapter in Alzheimer's Treatment

The LEQEMBI treatment protocol initially involves intravenous doses administered every two weeks for 18 months. Following this period, patients are given the choice to either continue with intravenous infusions at a reduced frequency or switch to the new weekly subcutaneous injection of 360 mg using the LEQEMBI IQLIK autoinjector. This option reflects a shift towards more patient-centric care, reducing the need for frequent visits to infusion centers.

Benefits of At-Home Administration

The LEQEMBI IQLIK injection aims to provide several advantages:

• - Convenience: Patients can receive care in the comfort of their homes.
• - Reduced Healthcare Burden: This approach minimizes the resources required for IV administration, potentially increasing capacity for new patients in need of initiation treatments.
• - Support Initiatives: The launch of the LEQEMBI Companion™ program aims to empower patients through educational resources, including personalized injection training from nurse educators, mobile app integration for managing injections, and assistance in understanding insurance coverage and financial support options.

Enhanced Patient Support

The LEQEMBI Companion™ program is designed to ensure a comprehensive support system throughout the patient’s treatment journey, including:

• - Injection Education: Patients can receive guidance from nurse educators, either during in-person visits or through digital platforms. This initiative focuses on training patients on how to properly administer their maintenance doses using the LEQEMBI IQLIK.
• - Welcome Kit: Newly enrolled patients will receive educational materials to prepare them for the treatment process, clearly outlining expectations and procedures for at-home injections.
• - Mobile Application: The companion app offers tools for tracking injections and provides users with pertinent information about their treatment experience. Interested individuals can sign up through LEQEMBI.com.

A Larger Commitment to Alzheimer's Care

Further cementing their commitment to fighting Alzheimer's disease, Eisai also announced the launch of a Patient Assistance Program (PAP) aimed at providing free access to LEQEMBI and LEQEMBI IQLIK for eligible uninsured and underinsured patients facing financial hardships.

Understanding Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's is a progressive disease characterized by complex neurotoxic processes. It is primarily marked by amyloid-beta aggregation and tau protein tangles in the brain. Clinical studies demonstrate that LEQEMBI uniquely combats Alzheimer's by targeting both amyloid plaques and protofibrils, contributing to sustained cognitive function. Ongoing treatment after the initial 18 months is deemed crucial in mitigating the progression of the disease, maintaining patients' identities longer.

Safety and Considerations

While LEQEMBI represents a significant advancement, healthcare professionals must ensure careful monitoring due to potential risks associated with its use, such as Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities (ARIA). This condition requires vigilance and regular MRI evaluations during patient treatment. The safety profile of LEQEMBI IQLIK appears comparable to that of intravenous doses, with reduced rates of systemic reactions.

Future of Alzheimer’s Care

This innovative development from Eisai and Biogen marks a pivotal moment in Alzheimer's treatment, providing patients and caregivers with empowered choices and resources to navigate their pathway with this complex disease. The strategic collaboration between these two leaders in biotechnology highlights the evolving landscape of Alzheimer's disease treatment, where patient welfare and improved access are prioritized amidst ongoing research advancements.

For further inquiries or information on the LEQEMBI treatment process, patients and healthcare professionals can visit LEQEMBI.com or connect with their healthcare provider.

Conclusion

With the introduction of LEQEMBI IQLIK and the expansion of patient support initiatives, Eisai and Biogen are not only enhancing patient autonomy but also fostering a more holistic approach to managing Alzheimer’s disease—one that emphasizes education, support, and accessibility. As Alzheimer's continues to impact millions, such innovative treatments are vital in the ongoing pursuit of improved patient outcomes.