#South Korea #Seoul #Lecanemab #Eisai #Biogen

Introduction

On November 27, 2024, Eisai Co., Ltd. and Biogen Inc. revealed the launch of LEQEMBI® (lecanemab) in South Korea, marking a significant advancement in Alzheimer's disease treatment. This announcement comes after the product received approval from the country's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) in May 2024, designed specifically for adult patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease (AD).

About LEQEMBI

LEQEMBI is a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets soluble aggregated amyloid-beta (Aβ) protofibrils and insoluble Aβ fibrils, which are pivotal in the development of amyloid plaques common in Alzheimer’s patients. By binding to these Aβ aggregates, LEQEMBI aims to reduce both protofibrils and plaques in the brain, effectively slowing down the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Unlike other drugs, LEQEMBI is the first treatment confirmed to decrease the speed of Alzheimer’s progression through its unique mechanism.

The Alzheimer’s Burden in South Korea

According to recent statistics, approximately 900,000 individuals were diagnosed with dementia in South Korea as of 2021. Notably, 10% of the population aged over 65 suffers from dementia, while 20% experience some form of mild cognitive impairment. Alzheimer’s patients alone compose roughly 70% of the entire dementia patient community. The economic implications are staggering, with annual medical costs for dementia patients averaging 21.1 million KRW. For those grappling with severe dementia, expenses can escalate to an alarming 33.1 million KRW per year.

Collaborative Efforts

Eisai is the lead conductor of the development and regulatory campaign for LEQEMBI, while Biogen collaborates in its promotion and commercialization. Eisai Korea Inc. will manage its distribution in South Korea. This company has long advocated for raising awareness about dementia and enhancing early diagnosis and treatment. They have engaged with numerous stakeholders ranging from healthcare professionals to diagnostic firms, seeking to build a comprehensive support system for Alzheimer's that emphasizes early intervention.

Launch Strategy

Initially, Eisai Korea Inc. plans to introduce LEQEMBI in the private healthcare market. The focus will include establishing a Patient Assistance Program to offer lecanemab to patients eagerly awaiting treatment. This initiative aims to improve not only the lives of patients but also provide support for their families, thus impacting South Korean society at large positively.

Understanding Protofibrils

Recent studies emphasize the detrimental role of protofibrils in AD. These aggregates are recognized as particularly toxic forms of Aβ, contributing to neuronal injury and the cognitive impairments typical of Alzheimer’s. By targeting protofibrils, LEQEMBI seeks to mitigate the neuronal damage and halt cognitive decline associated with this progressive disease.

Conclusion

The introduction of LEQEMBI represents a beacon of hope in the landscape of Alzheimer’s treatment in South Korea. As Eisai and Biogen continue their commitment to developing effective therapies for Alzheimer's, the hope is that LEQEMBI will provide tangible benefits to patients living with this challenging condition. Continuing to improve early diagnosis rates and treatment accessibility remains crucial as the country addresses the growing dementia crisis.

For further updates on Eisai and Biogen's initiatives, visit their respective online platforms.