We understand how overwhelming an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can feel—for both patients and caregivers. The good news is that new medications are now available that can help slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.
These treatments, like Leqembi (approved in 2023), are designed to target the underlying causes of Alzheimer’s—specifically a protein called amyloid, which plays a role in the disease’s development.
Here’s everything you need to know about what these treatments do, who might benefit, and what to expect along the way—helping you feel more informed and supported on your journey.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain, gradually impairing memory, cognitive function, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other intellectual abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life.
The condition develops slowly and worsens over time, eventually leading to the inability to carry out basic tasks such as eating, dressing, or communicating. While age is the greatest known risk factor, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. Early signs often include forgetfulness, confusion, and difficulty completing familiar tasks.
Alzheimer’s Symptoms
Alzheimer’s disease typically progresses through distinct stages, each marked by a range of symptoms. While memory loss is often one of the earliest signs, the condition can also lead to changes in mood and behavior, including increased agitation or aggression.
| Alzheimer’s Stage | Signs/Symptoms |
| Preclinical |
|
| Mild |
|
| Moderate |
|
| Severe |
|
Mild Cognitive Impairment and Early Symptomatic Alzheimer’s Disease
People experiencing mild cognitive impairment often notice subtle changes. Some of the first signs of Alzheimer’s can seem minor, but they’re still significant:
- Misplacing keys more often
- Struggling to remember names
- Forgetting where they are (getting lost)
- Trouble with routine tasks
- Needing reminders for appointments
- Difficulty with finances
These early warning signs are the perfect window for booking infusion therapy intervention. At this stage, the brain is still relatively healthy.
How Alzheimer’s is Diagnosed
There is no “gold standard” in diagnosing Alzheimer’s. Health providers will often use various testing methods to arrive at a diagnosis. This might include a physical exam, blood tests, imaging scans, as well as a cognitive function exam.
The latter test is referred to as a Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), which can be scored. A result of 20-25 indicated mild cognitive impairment, while 10-20 is considered moderate. Those in more advanced stages might have a score under 10.
If you’re over 65, that’s considered a risk factor. But age isn’t the primary factor—what matters most is the stage of disease progression and overall health status. A family history of dementia is also a consideration, especially for early-onset cases.
Other possible risk factors include:
- Prior traumatic brain injuries
- Air pollution
- Lack of social connections
- Lack of lifelong learning
- Heavy alcohol use
- Tobacco use
- Poor sleep hygiene
- Lack of exercise
- Untreated cholesterol/blood pressure issues
- Obesity
Early Stages vs. Advanced Disease Progression
The amyloid clumps that cause Alzheimer’s can start to form a full decade before any symptoms, so there’s time to get ahead of this disease. Regular visits to a healthcare provider can help.
Your watchful eye is also important to recognize the earlier symptoms in loved ones—you can recognize if their usual behavior has changed, and to contact a health provider on their behalf
While infusion therapies can be effective for clearing away plaque and addressing early signs, once the advanced stages (moderate to severe) take hold, they may not be as effective.
Advanced Alzheimer’s shows significant brain tissue loss. At this stage, the patient will likely have symptoms ranging from loss of bladder control to psychosis, which can make the patient paranoid or suffer hallucinations.
Treating Alzheimer’s With Infusion Therapy
Certain advanced medications for Alzheimer’s are given through intravenous (IV) infusion—but it’s the medication itself, not the infusion process, that matters most.
These treatments target harmful proteins in the brain, such as amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which contribute to the progression of the disease. By reducing these protein buildups, the medications aim to preserve cognitive function for longer.
California Specialty Pharmacy (CSP) supports access to these therapies, which are designed primarily for people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. Think of it like clearing traffic jams in the brain’s communication highways—helping signals flow more freely.
How These Medications Work
Infusion therapies help slow Alzheimer’s by maintaining connections between brain cells—but they don’t stop the disease completely. Research shows that patients receiving these treatments often experience up to a 30% slower rate of clinical decline compared to traditional medications alone.
At the cellular level, the medications work to protect healthy brain tissue by clearing away toxic proteins that trigger inflammation and cell death. This protective effect goes beyond memory, supporting brain functions like language, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. Symptoms beyond memory loss that may improve or stabilize include mild coordination issues, mood changes, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances.
How the Infusion Works
Delivered directly into the bloodstream, IV administration allows these medications to reach the brain more effectively than pills. Patients typically receive treatment in a comfortable, monitored setting, with each session lasting about an hour.
While these medications are not cures, they represent important progress in managing Alzheimer’s and offer hope for improved quality of life.
Who Can Benefit?
These therapies work best for patients in the early stages of Alzheimer’s—those who still handle most daily activities but have started to notice memory challenges or have evidence of protein buildup on brain scans.
Early-onset Alzheimer’s, affecting people in their 40s, 50s, or early 60s, is another group that may benefit significantly. Because younger brains often respond better to treatment, slowing disease progression can help preserve quality of life for many more years.
Current Treatment Options
Two IV-administered medications are approved in the U.S. for early-stage Alzheimer’s:
- Leqembi (Lecanemab): Clears amyloid proteins before they form plaques.
- Kisunla (Donanemab): Targets and removes existing amyloid plaques.
While these drugs work in slightly different ways, their shared goal is to reduce harmful protein buildup, helping maintain cognitive function so patients and their families can enjoy more meaningful time together.
What to Expect During Infusion Therapy
Walking into an infusion center for the first time might feel overwhelming for you or your loved one. But rest assured that providers typically have the best outcomes for patients in mind, and that means providing the comfort your family members rely on.
The atmosphere is often surprisingly peaceful, with comfortable chairs, blankets, and refreshments available. Some people even look forward to the quiet time away from daily responsibilities.
Many people bring books, tablets, or companions to pass the time while receiving infusions, including immunoglobulin therapy to regulate the immune system.
The session typically begins with a brief health check and vital sign monitoring. Providers then insert an IV line and begin the medication infusion, checking in to ensure everything is going smoothly.
The Infusion Process and Frequency
Each infusion therapy has its own scheduling. Kisunla® infusions take around 30 minutes per session, delivered once every two weeks over an 18-month period. Depending on the results, the frequency might be extended to once a month.
Leqembi® therapy is delivered every four weeks, with the amount of medication given based on the patient’s body mass (10 mg/kg). Following the first few doses, the volume will double at the same four-week intervals.
The first visits might take longer due to paperwork and initial assessments. Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately after treatment.
Monitoring With MRI Scans and Follow-Up Visits
Regular monitoring forms a crucial part of infusion therapy success. Healthcare providers may order MRI scans before starting treatment to create a baseline reference to track brain changes.
These images help identify amyloid-related imaging abnormalities early, allowing for prompt action. Follow-up visits include cognitive assessments and blood tests to monitor overall health and potential side effects.
Potential Side Effects
Like any medical treatment, infusion therapy for Alzheimer’s comes with potential risks that patients and families need to understand. However, most people would agree that minor side effects are worth having a loved one stay healthy longer.
Common side effects might include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Mild flu-like symptoms
- Chills
- Nausea
- Changes in blood pressure
California Specialty Pharmacy is highly rated for safety and efficacy in Alzheimer’s infusion therapies, with dedicated infusion centers and expert clinical staff that can explain to you what’s normal and what’s not following a treatment. The experienced teams know how to recognize and respond to potential issues quickly, providing peace of mind for your family.
More serious concerns require careful monitoring but affect only a small percentage of patients. Improvements are being rolled out to minimize risks even more. In fact, Kisunla (Donanemab) has just been approved by the FDA for gradual dosing to avoid more serious side effects.
Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities and Brain Swelling
One closely watched complication from Alzheimer’s infusions is amyloid-related imaging abnormalities, or ARIA. These changes show up on MRI scans and can indicate areas of brain swelling or small bleeds.
While the term sounds alarming, many cases cause no symptoms and resolve on their own. When ARIA does cause symptoms, they might include headaches, confusion, or vision changes.
Other Treatment Options
While infusion therapies such as amyloid-beta directed antibodies are gaining attention in Alzheimer’s care, they represent just one part of a broader treatment landscape. A variety of oral medications continue to play an essential role in managing symptoms across different stages of the disease.
These therapies may help improve cognitive function, support behavioral stability, and maintain quality of life for as long as possible. Below is an overview of key classes, agents, and routes of administration used in current Alzheimer’s treatment protocols.
| Place in Therapy | Class | Generic | Brand | Route |
| Mild cognitive impairment | Amyloid-beta directed antibodies! | Donanemab-azbt | Kisunla | Intravenous |
| Lecanemab-irmb | Leqembi | Intravenous | ||
| Mild-severe cognitive impairment | Cholinesterase inhibitors | Donepezil | Aricept | Oral |
| Rivastigmine | Exelon | Oral | ||
| Galantamine | Razadyne | Oral | ||
| Moderate-severe cognitive impairment | NMDA receptor antagonist | Memantine | Namenda | Oral |
| Psychosis and Agitation | Antipsychotics*! | Haloperidol | Haldol | Oral |
| Olanzapine | Zyprexa | Oral | ||
| Aripiprazole | Abilify | Oral |
The Future of Infusions for Alzheimer’s Disease
While there’s still no cure for Alzheimer’s, promising research continues.
The landscape of Alzheimer’s treatment has transformed dramatically with the introduction of infusion therapies. These treatments offer real hope for slowing disease progression and preserving quality of life during crucial early stages.
While not a cure, they represent a significant step forward in your ability to fight back against cognitive decline and keep your loved ones healthier to enjoy their company longer.
Ongoing research continues to refine these treatments, making them safer and more effective. New medications in development promise even better outcomes, while improved diagnostic tools help identify candidates earlier.
For families facing a recent Alzheimer’s diagnosis, CSP’s comprehensive approach to infusion therapy provides a powerful way to take action. Contact our experienced team today to get a head start on Alzheimer’s with targeted treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
What is the infusion medication for Alzheimer’s?
Kisunla® and Leqembi® are intravenous infusion medications used to treat early Alzheimer’s disease by targeting and removing amyloid plaques from the brain.
What is the new miracle drug for Alzheimer’s?
There is no “miracle drug” for Alzheimer’s, but Kisunla® and Leqembi® are promising treatments that can slow cognitive decline in early stages.
How much does Leqembi cost per year?
The cost of Leqembi (Lecanemab) can vary, but it is generally expensive and may cost tens of thousands of dollars annually. Reach out to your insurance provider to clarify your coverage.
What are new drugs for Alzheimer’s?
The new IV drugs for Alzheimer’s are Kisunla® and Leqembi®, which are designed to slow the progression of the disease.
References:
- Lecanemab Approved for Treatment of Early Alzheimer’s Disease. Alzheimer’s Association. https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/lecanemab-leqembi
- Young-onset Alzheimer’s: When symptoms begin before age 65. Mayo Clinic. 2024 Apr. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20048356#:~:text=A%20person%20who%20inherits%20at,may%20lead%20to%20new%20treatments
- Beyond Memory Loss: How to Handle the Other Symptoms of Alzheimer’s. John Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/alzheimers-disease/beyond-memory-loss-how-to-handle-the-other-symptoms-of-alzheimers#:~:text=Alzheimer%27s%20is%20known%20as%20a,disease%2C%20the%20shock%20of%20diagnosis.
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