Alzheimer’s Disease Drugs Show Promise in Commercial Market
Initial high hopes for new Alzheimer’s drugs in recent years were met with a weak start, but now they may finally be gaining some commercial momentum. Sales of Eli Lilly’s Kisunla and Eisai and Biogen’s Leqembi have shown significant growth, with Kisunla bringing in $70 million during the third quarter compared to $48.6 million in the second quarter. Leqembi continues to experience an upward trend, generating $121 million globally, an 82% year-over-year increase.
According to Dr. Suzanne Schindler, a clinical neurologist and dementia specialist at Washington University School of Medicine, providers are becoming more comfortable with these treatments as they see that most patients are tolerating them well. Despite the market challenges faced by both drugs, including concerns about serious side effects, the commercial success they are now experiencing is a positive sign.
The European Medicines Agency initially had reservations about Kisunla due to the modest benefits of treatment not outweighing significant safety risks. However, Lilly appealed the decision, and the EMA granted approval in September. Leqembi also faced similar questions regarding the risk-benefit balance.
Prescribing challenges have also hindered the uptake of these drugs, as many doctors were not familiar with the specialized protocols required for these amyloid-targeting drugs. The administration is complex, requiring regular infusions, multiple brain scans, and visits.
Despite these challenges, the new drugs hold significant appeal for patients and caregivers facing limited treatment options. Lilly and Biogen have made efforts to improve safety and reduce the treatment burden. The recent approval of Leqembi Iqlik, a once-weekly, at-home maintenance injection, could make ongoing treatment more convenient for patients. Additionally, a modified dosing schedule for Kisunla has been approved to lower the risk of side effects without reducing drug dosage.
The goal is to establish a clearer path to treatment for patients, especially at an earlier stage when the drugs could have the most potential. A Kisunla extension trial showed a 27% reduction in disease progression among early-stage patients compared to those who started taking the drug later.
Overall, the steady rise of Kisunla and Leqembi suggests that disease-modifying Alzheimer’s drugs may be gaining commercial traction after a tentative start. Continued efforts to increase prescribing, improve safety, and reduce treatment burden are essential to ensure that these drugs reach all patients who could benefit from them. The field of Alzheimer’s treatment is evolving towards precision medicine and targeted intervention, offering hope for the future of neurodegenerative disease management. The Benefits of Outdoor Exercise
Exercise is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, and getting outdoors can provide even more benefits to your physical and mental well-being. Whether you prefer to go for a run, hike, bike ride, or simply take a walk, spending time outside can enhance your workout routine in a variety of ways.
One of the main advantages of outdoor exercise is the fresh air and natural surroundings, which can help to boost your mood and reduce stress levels. Being in nature has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind, promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being. This can make your workout feel more enjoyable and less like a chore, leading to greater motivation and consistency in your fitness routine.
In addition to the mental benefits, outdoor exercise also provides physical advantages. Exercising outside often involves uneven terrain, such as trails or parks, which can engage different muscles and challenge your balance and coordination. This can help to improve your overall strength and stability, as well as prevent injuries by working muscles that may not be targeted in a traditional gym setting.
Furthermore, exposure to natural sunlight during outdoor exercise can increase your vitamin D levels, which is essential for bone health and immune function. Sunlight also helps to regulate your circadian rhythm, which can improve your sleep quality and overall energy levels. Just be sure to wear sunscreen and protect your skin from harmful UV rays while exercising outdoors.
Another benefit of outdoor exercise is the opportunity to connect with nature and disconnect from technology. In today’s digital age, many of us spend a significant amount of time indoors and glued to screens, which can lead to feelings of isolation and burnout. By stepping outside and immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of nature, you can experience a sense of grounding and presence that is difficult to replicate indoors.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out on your fitness journey, incorporating outdoor exercise into your routine can provide a wide range of benefits for both your body and mind. So next time you’re feeling the urge to break a sweat, consider taking your workout outside and reap the rewards of nature’s gym.
