The Alzheimer Society of Ireland welcomes FDA approval of Kisunla (Donanemab-azbt) for the treatment of early Alzheimer’s Disease

“The Alzheimer Society of Ireland welcomes the news that a second Disease Modifying Therapy, Kisunla, has been approved by the FDA. This decision tells us that Kisunla (Donanemab-azbt) is another credible treatment option that can alter the course of Alzheimer’s Disease and slow its progression. We have entered a new era in which there are now two treatment options for Early Alzheimer’s Disease available in the United States.  

“Here in Europe, we await a decision from the European Medicines Agency on another Disease Modifying Therapy, Lecanemab, which is expected before the end of summer. If approved by regulators, disease-modifying therapies will reach Ireland in the next couple of years. Should this happen, significant investment is required to ensure our health system is ready to deliver them. It would be devastating if we had a safe and effective treatment that our health system could not deliver. The Alzheimer Society of Ireland looks forward to working with the Government, political representatives, clinicians, people with dementia and family carers on this matter. 

“It is important to note that these drugs are not cures and they can have serious side effects. Disease Modifying Therapies are only suitable for a small number of people who are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease. There will be countless people for whom this drug will not be helpful. We must continue to advocate for and resource non-pharmacological interventions and supports for people with all types of dementia and their families,” said The ASI Research and Policy Manager, Dr Laura O’Philbin.  

 There are currently an estimated 64,000 people living with dementia in Ireland and that number is expected to more than double by 2045.