Breaking Ground: Alzheimer's Infusions Offer Hope
Recent research and FDA approvals have finally given us a treatment that slows the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease. Neurovations and the Napa Pain Institute are set to pioneer a new era of hope by offering the only FDA approved, IV infusion treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease.
For 5 years, Dr. Eric Grigsby and Neurovations have been involved in clinical studies evaluating Alzheimer’s Disease treatments. Finally, in July 2023, the U.S. Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approved one such treatment, named Leqembi, for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Data from the clinical studies, presented to the FDA, demonstrate a significant reduction in the pace of progression of Alzheimer’s.
How are Alzheimer’s Disease Treatments administered?
Leqembi is administered every two weeks through an IV infusion, lasting a little more than an hour for each treatment. Infusions will be administered at our infusion suite in Napa, at Napa Pain Institute. Patients in the clinical study took the drug for 18 months, and we expect you will take the drug for at least 12 months.
Are Alzheimer’s Disease infusions Covered by insurance?
Medicare now covers the treatment for all patients with confirmed mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia showing the signs of Alzheimer’s Disease. It is required to have a PET scan, to see the typical brain changes of Alzheimer’s Disease, before you are eligible for Leqembi. The treatments will be covered under the same co-pay and deductible rules applied to other Medicare treatments. Private insurance plans are likely to offer coverage for Alzheimer’s infusions soon.
We take pride in assisting our patients in navigating the best coverage options for their care and can answer insurance questions you may have.
What is Leqembi?
Leqembi is the first drug to receive approval through the FDA’s Accelerated Approval pathway. This pathway indicates that clinical trials provided sufficient evidence of the drug meeting its primary objectives. These objectives include a statistically significant reduction in brain amyloid plaque. During the clinical trial, patients experienced a notable delay in cognitive decline by 5.3 months compared to those on a placebo after 18 months of treatment.
Side effects of Leqembi include changes in the brain, seen on MRI, including microscopic bleeding and microscopic swelling of certain areas of the brain which usually goes way over time. Other side effects and risks can be reviewed with your Doctor prior to the infusion.
Leqembi is specifically approved for individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s progression. By undergoing treatment, those exhibiting signs of the disease may gain more quality time with their families, maintain independence for a more extended period, and experience an enhanced quality of life.
Additional Resources
While the Napa Pain Institute specializes in pain management, there are numerous resources available specifically for Alzheimer’s disease within the broader medical community.
Neurovations Research offers studies investigating different solutions for Alzheimer’s Disease.
Community-based organizations and non-profits also play a vital role in offering assistance and resources, ranging from caregiver support services to educational workshops:
Alzheimer’s Association:
Community Health Napa Valley
