Researchers at the University of Toronto announced encouraging results from a clinical trial of a new drug aimed at treating Alzheimer’s disease. This drug, known as Lecanemab, targets amyloid plaques in the brain, which are linked to the progression of the disease.

The Phase 2 trial involved 1,200 participants diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s. Results showed that patients who received Lecanemab experienced a 40% slowdown in cognitive decline compared to those given a placebo. The researchers reported improvements in memory and daily functioning over a 12-month period.

Dr. Michael Chan, the lead investigator, said, “These findings are significant. If we can slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s, we can improve quality of life for millions of patients and their families.”

Participants tolerated the drug well, with most experiencing only mild side effects, such as headache and fatigue. The research team emphasized the importance of early intervention in Alzheimer’s treatment, as this could lead to better outcomes.

Given the trial’s success, the researchers plan to conduct a larger Phase 3 trial to confirm the findings and explore long-term effects. They hope to submit the data for regulatory approval within the next year.

This breakthrough comes at a critical time, as the number of people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s continues to rise globally. New treatments could provide hope for patients and caregivers facing the challenges of this debilitating disease.

For further information and updates, you can follow the University of Toronto’s official announcements and sources like the Alzheimer’s Association.