“Leqembi” is the brand name for a medication that was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June 2021 for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The generic name of the medication is aducanumab, and it is marketed by Biogen.
Aducanumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the beta-amyloid plaques that accumulate in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. In clinical trials, aducanumab has shown promise in reducing the amount of beta-amyloid in the brain and slowing the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease. However, the approval of aducanumab has been controversial, as some experts have questioned the quality of the clinical trial data and the evidence supporting its effectiveness.
It’s important to note that aducanumab is not a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, and its effectiveness in treating the disease is still being studied. Additionally, aducanumab is administered intravenously and requires regular monitoring for potential side effects, including brain swelling and bleeding.
What are some side effects?
The most common side effects of aducanumab (brand name Leqembi) reported in clinical trials include:
1. Amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA): ARIA is a term used to describe swelling and/or bleeding in the brain that can occur with the use of amyloid-targeting medications like aducanumab. In clinical trials, around 40% of patients treated with aducanumab developed ARIA.
2. Headache
3. Confusion
4. Dizziness
5. Vision changes
6. Nausea
7. Diarrhea
8. Fatigue
It’s important to note that aducanumab requires regular monitoring for potential side effects, and patients receiving the medication should be closely monitored by their healthcare provider. If you experience any side effects while taking aducanumab or have concerns about the medication, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
To find out more, contact Countryside Neurology at 727-712-1567.
Sources:
ChatGPT
