Alzheimer’s/Dementia

CONDITION AND TREATMENT OVERVIEWAlzheimer’s/Dementia

In July 2023, the U.S. Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approved Leqembi, for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Leqembi is the second of a new category of medications approved for Alzheimer’s disease that targets the fundamental pathophysiology of the disease and represent an important advancement in the ongoing fight to effectively treat Alzheimer’s disease.

Leqembi is delivered via infusion therapy every two weeks. This means the medicine is administered directly into the bloodstream. It works by reducing the amyloid beta plaque, a marker in patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia stage of the disease.

For patients seeking this new therapy, Infusion for Health provides a comfortable, relaxing environment to receive Leqembi infusion treatments. Our dedicated team of medical professionals understands the struggles and challenges Alzheimer’s patients and their families face. It’s our mission to not only provide quality care, but to pamper our patients as they receive their infusion therapy sessions. Importantly we also work directly with our patients and their families to handle all insurance coverage, including for patients eligible for Medicare coverage.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease that causes memory loss over time. Common early signs of Alzheimer’s include:

• Forgetting new information, important dates, names, and events
• Repeatedly asking for the same information
• Losing or misplacing things
• Struggling to have a conversation or remember words
• Difficulty following basic instructions or performing daily tasks
• Getting time and places confused
• Changes in mood

Right now, scientists don’t know what causes Alzheimer’s disease. However, they have identified two types of problems that are common in Alzheimer’s patients:

1. Protein deposits in the brain called beta-amyloid plaques that build up in sticky clumps, interfering with nerve cells
2. Neurofibrillary tangles, fibers inside brain cells that move nutrients to and from critical parts and which have become twisted

These two factors work together to damage the brain. As tangles and plaques build up in the brain, healthy cells get damaged and die. This causes the brain to shrink and deteriorate over time, resulting in the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

While the actual cause of Alzheimer’s is unknown, there are some factors which seem to be associated with increased risk:

• Sex: Women tend to get Alzheimer’s more than men
• Genetics: Those with a family history of Alzheimer’s are at higher risk
• Age: The risk for Alzheimer’s increases with age
• Injury and Health: Issues like head injuries, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels may raise risk