Washington, D.C. (May 3, 2023) – Alzheimer’s patients were excited by news this morning that nearly half of Alzheimer’s patients taking a new drug, Donanemab, showed no decline in cognitive function after one year compared to 29% percent of people taking placebo, according to Phase 3 clinical trial data released by Eli Lilly Wednesday. George Vradenburg, chair and co-founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, released the following statement in response to today’s encouraging news:

“Talk to anyone with early-stage Alzheimer’s and they will tell you that living independently and having a higher quality of life for a longer period of time are among the most important things to them – that’s the promise of disease-slowing drugs like Donanemab. While it’s still not a cure, the Donanemab results show that it slows the progression of Alzheimer’s during its early stages, when slowing is the most important. Also, nearly three-quarters of patients completed their treatment course after just 18 months. 

“We look forward to the full data and swift FDA action, but this is exciting news. With FDA approval and Medicare coverage, it would mean that millions of Americans will finally have options in treating their Alzheimer’s. We have waited decades for this. We’re so grateful to the patients and their caregivers who participated in the trials of this drug—and in all the trials that came before it. Thanks to them, we have hope.”

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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 access to treatments – all 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.