These are independent reviews of the products mentioned, but TIME receives a commission when purchases are made through affiliate links at no additional cost to the purchaser.
Lecanemab (Leqembi), made by Eisai and Biogen, is only the second drug approved by the FDA to treat Alzheimer’s disease, and it may be the most effective. In studies, Leqembi slowed cognitive decline as measured on tests and tasks of daily living by 27% compared to placebo. Patients receive the drug, which helps to reduce build up of the amyloid protein in the brain that can compromise brain function, intravenously once every two weeks at an infusion center. The drug can cause brain swelling, especially among those with genes that put them at higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s, but regular scans and tapering back on doses can control that risk.
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Donald Trump Is TIME's 2024 Person of the Year
- Why We Chose Trump as Person of the Year
- Is Intermittent Fasting Good or Bad for You?
- The 100 Must-Read Books of 2024
- The 20 Best Christmas TV Episodes
- Column: If Optimism Feels Ridiculous Now, Try Hope
- The Future of Climate Action Is Trade Policy
- Merle Bombardieri Is Helping People Make the Baby Decision