Alzheimer's causes a reduction in the patient's cognitive ability and function so that they no longer recognize the people around them. There is currently no treatment for an estimated 55 million people worldwide. But today there is hope after Eisai Co and Biogen Inc announced the success of a drug capable of slowing the cognitive decline of Alzheimer's patients.
In tests performed on patients, the drug Lecanemab reduced cognitive decline by up to 27% compared to the use of a placebo. Despite not being able to fully treat Alzheimer's, this success is seen as a step in the right direction to produce more effective treatments in the future.
Scientists have found that if the layer of amyloid beta protein found in the patient's brain can be removed, the effects of Alzheimer's on the patient can be reduced. Eisa and Biogen are now seeking permission from the FDA to begin testing patients in the United States before applying to be approved for use in Japan and Europe.
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