Who may qualify for disease-modifying therapy

Overview

These therapies are only appropriate for a subset of people with Alzheimer's disease, and eligibility is determined through specialist evaluation.

Generally considered when

• Symptoms are at the MCI or mild dementia stage
• Amyloid pathology is confirmed
• MRI does not show excessive microbleeds or prior large hemorrhage
• The person can complete infusions and monitoring
• Goals of care align with the modest expected benefit

Often not appropriate when

• Dementia is moderate or advanced
• Biomarkers are negative
• Anticoagulation or bleeding risk makes ARIA dangerous
• Significant other illness limits benefit

Next step

Ask for referral to a neurologist or memory clinic experienced with amyloid-targeting therapy to discuss whether evaluation is appropriate.