Patients who received Eli Lily’s monthly donanemab infusion in an 18-month study demonstrated a 35% slower decline in memory, thinking, and ability to perform activities of daily living, and were 39% less likely to progress to the next stage of the disease. Brain plaque was also reduced significantly.
The risk of the drug is brain swelling and bleeding. Three trial participants died from these complications.
Lilly CSO/CMO Daniel Skovronsky said donanemab demonstrated the highest level of efficacy of any Alzheimer’s treatment in a clinical trial.
The company plans to apply for FDA approval in the coming months.