Objectives.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that causes cognitive decline and memory loss due to protein accumulation in the brain. Current pharmacological treatments like cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine have limitations, so there is a need for new therapies. Lecanemab is a monoclonal antibody that targets a specific form of amyloid-beta (Aβ) in the brain. It has shown promise in slowing down the progression of AD and protecting neurons. However, it has been associated with the incidence of adverse events in clinical trials, including infusion-related reactions (IRRs) and amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). This review includes up-to-date publications concerning the efficacy of lecanemab in the treatment of AD. The characteristics of lecanemab and its precise mechanism of action were presented. The adverse reactions were likewise discussed.

Literature review.

The phase II clinical trial “201” and the phase III “Clarity AD” trial assessed the safety and efficacy of lecanemab. The Study “201” identified the optimal dosage (10 mg/kg biweekly) of lecanemab to achieve maximum treatment effect and showed a 30% less clinical decline compared to placebo. The “Clarity AD” study showed significant differences between patients taking lecanemab and those taking a placebo, using the Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) and changes in Aβ volume on PET as primary endpoints.

Conclusions.

Lecanemab represents a promising new therapeutic option for individuals with AD, but ongoing research is needed to determine its long-term efficacy and safety.