Possible treatment for Alzheimer’s disease makes breakthrough
Posted on 18 January 2023
Recent research has given the world a glimmer of hope for the future of dealing with Alzheimer’s disease – the most common form of dementia. The drug lecanemab appears to slow down dementia’s degenerative effects on the brain.
Alzheimer’s is a degenerative disease that affects the brain, usually in later life. There is currently no way to treat Alzheimer’s disease, but research has been ongoing for several years to understand the disease and identify possible ways of combatting it or even preventing it from developing in the first place.
The disease causes a mysterious build-up of amyloid proteins in the brain, which slow down thought processes and lead to difficulties with things like memory and communication. Researchers have suspected that clearing amyloid from the brains of those with dementia could help to slow down the damaging effects of Alzheimer’s.
What is lecanemab and how does it help someone with dementia?
Lecanemab is essentially an antibody, just like those which attack viruses and bacteria in our bodies to prevent illnesses. As lecanemab particularly targets amyloid proteins affecting the brain, it is thought to be useful in fighting off the main cause of Alzheimer’s disease – ultimately slowing down the progression of dementia.
Unlike most antibodies, however, our bodies don’t naturally produce lecanemab. Instead, the antibody has been created in a laboratory following years of clinical research. Clinical trials are still ongoing, but recently published findings have indicated that lecanemab can have a small effect on reducing cognitive decline.
Results published in the New England Journal of Medicine have been described as a ‘momentous’ step by Alzheimer’s Research UK. It is important to note that research in dementia treatment is ongoing and highly complex.
Further studies and clinical trials will be necessary before we can say whether lecanemab will be an effective treatment in the future. However, after years of disappointments in the field of dementia research, these early signs could be a positive turning point in the fight against dementia.
How do we support people with dementia today?
Right now, there is no treatment capable of slowing down or stopping Alzheimer’s disease from getting worse. The only treatments available for those living with the disease are designed to help manage their existing symptoms. On top of this, care providers like SureCare can offer practical and emotional support to people with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones.
We know that experiences of dementia can differ from person to person, but common issues include confusion, memory loss and feelings of isolation. Providing support for someone with dementia usually means having to take extra care and consideration of these aspects to ensure they remain happy and comfortable under the circumstances.
At SureCare, we strive to deliver a highly supportive service that’s knowledgeable and professional, whilst showing the utmost compassion. That way, we aim to reassure you that your loved one will receive the care and attention they need whilst living with dementia.