Cochrane review questions clinical benefit of anti-amyloid Alzheimer’s drugs and prompts expert criticism

What kinds of drugs did the review examine?

It examined anti-amyloid monoclonal antibody drugs, including newer treatments such as lecanemab and donanemab, which are designed to remove amyloid protein deposits from the brain NYT,Guardian,Daily Mail.

What did the review say about patient benefit?

The review said any slowing of cognitive decline or changes in daily functioning over about 18 months were absent, inconsistent, or too small to be considered clinically meaningful for patients Guardian,Daily Mail,DIE WELT.

Why are some experts disputing the review?

Critics say the analysis grouped together older failed anti-amyloid drugs with newer drugs that had shown positive trial results, which they argue can blur differences between treatments and understate the evidence for specific medicines NYT,Independent,Bloomberg Business.