What to Know About Canada’s Newly Approved Alzheimer’s Drug
Health Canada has conditionally approved a new drug called lecanemab (brand name Leqembi) to slow the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. The approval has sparked questions about how effective the drug really is and how accessible it will be across Canada.
Lecanemab is a lab-made antibody that’s given through an IV every two weeks. It targets amyloid plaque—a sticky buildup in the brain that is a main feature of Alzheimer’s.
Experts stress that lecanemab is not a cure. It does not reverse Alzheimer’s or bring back lost memories. However, it is the first treatment in Canada that can change the course of the disease, rather than only easing symptoms, according to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.
Who Can Get It?
Leqembi is approved for people with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s. To qualify, patients must have confirmed amyloid buildup in the brain. They also need genetic testing to check for a gene called APOE4, which can increase the risk of side effects such as brain swelling or bleeding.
The treatment is only for patients with one or no copies of the APOE4 gene. Those with two copies are more likely to have complications. Access to the required genetic tests varies between provinces and territories.
Does It Work?
Dr. Samir Sinha, a geriatrician at Toronto’s Sinai Health and University Health Network, says lecanemab may help people stay independent longer, but the benefits appear modest.
“Right now, it takes about 18 months before you might notice a meaningful difference,” he said.
About 750,000 Canadians live with dementia, and roughly 500,000 have a diagnosis. Sinha noted that by the time many people are diagnosed, they might no longer be eligible for the drug.
He also questioned whether the benefits justify the high price tag — about $26,000 USD per year in other countries.
How Is It Given?
Before starting treatment, patients must undergo specialized tests such as lumbar punctures or PET scans to confirm eligibility.
The medication is given by IV every two weeks, each session lasting about an hour. Patients also need regular brain scans (PET or MRI) to make sure the drug is working safely.
The Alzheimer Society of Canada says this will require major investments in health-care staff, equipment, and infrastructure to deliver treatment fairly and effectively.
What Are the Side Effects?
Clinical trials found that some patients experienced brain swelling or bleeding, which are serious risks. These side effects are also seen with other antibody-based Alzheimer’s treatments.
How Much Does It Cost?
The drug costs around $26,000 USD per year in other countries. The Alzheimer Society is urging governments to make it publicly funded so eligible Canadians can access it.
It can take up to two years after approval for new drugs to be covered by public health insurance. Some private or extended benefit plans may cover it sooner.
In 2024, Britain’s health agency decided not to cover lecanemab, saying its benefits were too small for the cost.
