Washington, DC (August 26, 2024) — Despite approval for use in Great Britain by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the government’s National Health Service (NHS) has decided not to cover the costs for Alzheimer’s patients in need. With this decision, the NHS is telling patients and their families they are on their own – if they want access to the drug, they will have to pay out of their own pockets. Lecanemab is one of two drugs available that slow the progression of Alzheimer’s in its early stages. 

UsAgainstAlzheimer’s chair and co-founder George Vradenburg issued the following statement in response to NHS’ decision:

"Disease modifying drugs like Lecanemab mark an innovative step forward in Alzheimer's treatment, offering hope to countless families affected by this devastating disease and catalyzing investment in a diverse pipeline of future medicines.  But the decision by NHS to refuse access to this drug is massively inequitable and chills investment in future Alzheimer’s medicines.  Patients with Alzheimer’s want and deserve more time with family, impose less burden on their loved ones and enjoy the hope that newer medicines will continue to enable them to delay the ravages of dementia.  We strongly urge the NHS to reconsider its decision and make this drug available to all, regardless of their financial situation."

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About UsAgainstAlzheimer’s
UsAgainstAlzheimer’s is engaged in a relentless pursuit to end Alzheimer’s, the sixth leading killer in America. Our work centers on prevention, early detection and diagnosis, and equal access to treatments regardless of gender, race, or ethnicity. To achieve our mission, we give voice to patients and caregivers while partnering with government, scientists, the private sector, and allied organizations -- the people who put the “Us” in UsAgainstAlzheimer’s.