FDA approves donanemab, Eli Lilly's treatment for early Alzheimer's disease

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved donanemab, a monoclonal antibody developed to slow the progression of early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease. Donanemab, made by a pharmaceutical company, works by removing amyloid plaque buildup in the brain, a characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease. The medication will be sold under the name Kisunla and is priced at $695 per vial. Clinical trials showed that donanemab slowed the progression of the disease, allowing patients to live independently for longer periods. The treatment is not a cure and has some potential adverse effects. Another monoclonal antibody treatment for Alzheimer’s is already available.