After sixteen very long years without any truly viable Alzheimer’s treatment options, there is some optimism on the horizon, in a stunning reversal regarding the formerly-rejected antibody therapy, aducanumab. The most recent research uncovers that large quantities of the medication do, in fact, lessen cognitive decline in the early stages of Alzheimer’s.
As stated by Rebecca Edelmayer, director of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer’s Association, “It could be a game-changer for the field. It could be one of the first disease-modifying therapies approved for Alzheimer’s disease.”
Biogen, the manufacturer of aducanumab, estimates significant benefits for dementia patients in a variety of areas: activities of daily living, memory, language, and orientation. Biogen revealed its intentions to obtain regulatory approval within the U.S., with a longer-term aim of launching the medication worldwide.
With an estimated request for approval from the FDA as soon as early 2020, the drug is slated to potentially become the first treatment method to actually reduce the clinical decline of Alzheimer’s. Likewise, it will certainly open doors to many other Alzheimer’s treatment options that impact amyloid beta plaques, connecting other trials that target the immune system, inflammation, blood vessels, and synaptic cell health. As uncovering the most beneficial treatments for the disease is a complex endeavor, it is probable that a combination of these approaches will be essential, per Edelmayer.
The next challenge? Convincing the FDA to approve the treatment after previous failed trials. If approved, aducanumab will first be offered to people who had signed up for past clinical trials, and hopefully, soon available to other individuals dealing with the challenges of Alzheimer’s as well.
When it comes to the almost six million senior Americans battling Alzheimer’s (and that figure is anticipated to more than double during the next three decades), in addition to loved ones who care for them, these most recent findings may possibly be life-changing, as there are presently only minimally successful symptom-management medications available. Even as we await a treatment, we at Independence-4-Seniors Home Care, providers of the home care in Hinsdale families trust, are prepared to help dementia patients through highly skilled, trained, and experienced caregivers who make use of creative therapeutic approaches that center on each person’s distinct strengths and making sure that each person is living to the fullest.
For more information about excellent Alzheimer’s care that helps maximize quality of life in the comfort of home, get in touch with the dementia care professionals at Independence-4-Seniors Home Care at (630) 323-4665 and request an in-home assessment or additional useful resources.