Navigating memory changes or an early Alzheimer’s diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but today’s treatments are offering new hope. Leqembi® is an advanced, FDA-approved therapy designed to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in its early stages. At WellToMD, we take a thoughtful, physician-led approach to care, helping you understand your options and feel confident in your next steps. Call to schedule a consultation and learn if Leqembi is right for you or your loved one.
Leqembi is a prescription infusion used to treat early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, including mild cognitive impairment and early dementia related to Alzheimer’s. Unlike traditional therapies that focus primarily on symptom management, Leqembi is designed to target one of the underlying causes of the disease.
Alzheimer’s is associated with the buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain, which interfere with communication between nerve cells and contribute to cognitive decline. Leqembi is specifically developed to address this process, making it an important advancement for individuals looking to slow progression rather than simply manage symptoms. This treatment is best suited for patients in the early stages of Alzheimer’s who have confirmed amyloid pathology. We offer a comprehensive cognitive and medical evaluation to determine if the patient is an appropriate fit for this treatment.
Leqembi works by targeting and clearing amyloid beta plaques in the brain. These plaques are believed to play a key role in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. By reducing their buildup, Leqembi helps preserve cognitive function and slow the rate of decline over time. The treatment is administered through intravenous (IV) infusions on a regular schedule and is carefully monitored to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Leqembi binds to amyloid beta proteins in the brain and helps the body remove these plaques, which are linked to cognitive decline.
Amyloid plaques disrupt communication between brain cells. Reducing them may help slow the progression of memory and cognitive changes.
Leqembi is given through IV infusion, typically every two weeks, in a monitored clinical setting.
Leqembi works gradually over time. While it does not reverse Alzheimer’s, it is designed to slow the rate of progression with consistent treatment.
Safety is a top priority with Leqembi, particularly when it comes to monitoring for ARIA (amyloid-related imaging abnormalities). Patients receive a baseline MRI before starting treatment, along with scheduled imaging and ongoing symptom monitoring for things like headaches, confusion, dizziness, or visual changes. In some cases, APOE genetic counseling may also be recommended to further guide care and ensure the safest possible treatment plan.
Leqembi offers a new approach to Alzheimer’s care by focusing on slowing disease progression and supporting long-term cognitive health.
Leqembi is best suited for individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease with confirmed amyloid plaque presence. A comprehensive cognitive and medical evaluation is required to determine if this treatment is the right treatment for you.
No, Leqembi is not a cure, but it is designed to slow the progression of the disease in its early stages.
Candidates typically include individuals with mild cognitive impairment or early Alzheimer’s disease who have confirmed amyloid plaque buildup.
Some patients may experience side effects such as headache, infusion-related reactions, or brain swelling or bleeding, which are monitored closely during treatment.
Leqembi is typically administered every two weeks, with ongoing evaluation by your provider. You can expect treatment times to last about an hour plus observation.
Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. Our team can help guide you through understanding your options.
Leqembi focuses on addressing an underlying cause of Alzheimer’s by reducing amyloid plaques, rather than only managing symptoms.
