Much-Hyped Alzheimer's Drugs Show No Meaningful Benefit, Major Review Finds

A Cochrane review of 17 trials with more than 20,000 participants found seven anti-amyloid Alzheimer’s drugs reduced amyloid plaques but did not deliver meaningful clinical benefit.

The drugs included lecanemab and donanemab, which are used for people with mild cognitive impairment or early dementia.

Some researchers criticized the review for grouping drugs with different evidence levels, while others said the findings show the class has not met expectations.

The results could influence treatment guidelines, payer coverage, and future investment in costly Alzheimer’s therapies that also carry safety concerns.