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Treatment

Leqembi (lecanemab)

Quick answer

An anti-amyloid antibody that modestly slows decline in early Alzheimer's disease for carefully selected patients.

Author:
Illinois Dementia Guide editorial team
Medically reviewed by:
Amarish Dave, DO, Board Certified Neurologist
Published:
August 2026
Last medically reviewed:
August 2026
Geographic relevance:
Illinois, United States

Overview

Leqembi removes amyloid from the brain. It is used only in mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease, confirmed by biomarkers.

Who it is for

  • Biomarker-confirmed Alzheimer's disease
  • MCI or mild dementia stage
  • Able to complete regular infusions and MRI monitoring
  • No conditions that make bleeding risk unacceptable

What is involved

  • Intravenous infusions on a regular schedule
  • Baseline and follow-up MRI scans
  • APOE genotyping to assess ARIA risk
  • Ongoing specialist follow-up

Risks

  • ARIA — brain swelling or small bleeds, usually without symptoms but sometimes serious
  • Infusion reactions
  • Higher risk in APOE4 carriers and with anticoagulants

Important

Eligibility, benefit, and risk must be assessed individually by a clinician experienced in this therapy.

Related resources

Medically reviewed. Last reviewed August 2026. This page is educational information, not individualized medical advice.

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