Breakthrough Alzheimer’s drugs rejected for use on the NHS. Here’s how they work
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Why two Alzheimer’s drugs were rejected for use on the NHS
- The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has rejected two Alzheimer’s drugs, Donanemab and Lecanemab, for use on the NHS.
- Nice determined that the drugs offer only “modest benefits at best,” delaying disease progression by four to six months in early stages.
- The decision was based on the drugs' limited benefits not justifying their high cost, estimated to be between £500 million and £1 billion annually for the NHS.
- Donanemab and Lecanemab are targeted antibody drugs that work by clearing amyloid protein buildup in the brain to slow cognitive decline.
- Scientists and doctors remain divided on the drugs' clinical significance, with some highlighting their potential while others raise concerns about the small benefits and serious side effects observed in trials.