Eisai Launches Leqembi® in South Korea to Combat Alzheimer's Disease

Eisai Launches Leqembi® in South Korea

Eisai Co. Ltd., in collaboration with BioArctic AB, has recently announced the launch of Leqembi® (generic name: lecanemab) in South Korea, making it an important addition to the Alzheimer's treatment landscape. Approved in May 2024 for use in patients experiencing mild cognitive impairment associated with early Alzheimer's disease (AD), this breakthrough drug aims to address a significant health concern in the country, where an estimated 900,000 individuals were reported to have dementia in 2021.

The implications of this launch are profound, especially considering that approximately 10% of the population over the age of 65 suffers from dementia, and mild cognitive impairment affects 20% of this demographic. Alarming statistics reveal that around 70% of all dementia cases in South Korea are linked to Alzheimer's disease, emphasizing the urgent need for effective treatments like Leqembi®.

Leqembi® operates by selectively targeting both soluble and insoluble aggregates of amyloid-beta (Aβ), a critical element associated with the formation of amyloid plaques in the brains of those affected by AD. By reducing these aggregates, Leqembi® is the first approved treatment of its kind that has demonstrated the ability to slow the progression of the disease and delay cognitive decline.

The collaboration between BioArctic and Eisai has deep roots, with a notable foundation laid by Professor Lars Lannfelt's discovery of the Arctic mutation in Alzheimer's. This antibody therapy is the result of extensive research and development by the two companies, with Eisai taking the lead in clinical trials and regulatory approvals, while BioArctic focuses on commercialization efforts, particularly within the Nordic region.

Eisai's strategy includes an initial launch in the private market in South Korea, signaling a focused approach to maximizing patient access. With international approvals already secured in regions such as the U.S., Japan, and the European Union, Eisen aims to expand its reach, pending additional regulatory submissions for 17 more countries.

The impact of Leqembi® extends beyond immediate benefit, as it represents years of collaborative research and an unyielding commitment to combating the devastating effects of Alzheimer's disease. BioArctic has yet to incur any development costs for Leqembi® but will receive financial incentives linked to regulatory approvals and sales milestones.

Looking ahead, Eisai has also initiated additional studies, including a Phase 3 clinical trial focusing on individuals with preclinical AD, showcasing a commitment to further research and development within the Alzheimer’s treatment landscape. This trial is a collaborative effort with various stakeholders, including the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer's Clinical Trial Consortium.

In conclusion, Leqembi®'s debut in South Korea marks a significant milestone in Alzheimer's treatment, offering hope to countless patients and their families. As Eisai and BioArctic continue their partnership, the global health community will closely monitor the clinical and commercial progress of this innovative therapy, eager to mitigate one of the most pressing health challenges of our time.