Veterans’ Well being will cowl Alzheimer’s therapy Leqembi for some sufferers
The Veterans’ Well being Administration will cowl Eisai and Biogen‘s Alzheimer’s therapy Leqembi for some sufferers, the businesses introduced on Monday.
In a press release, Eisai mentioned veterans within the early phases of the illness who meet VHA standards are eligible for protection of Leqembi. The corporate didn’t present additional particulars on what these standards are.
CNBC has reached out to the VHA for extra info.
The VHA is the most important well being system within the nation, offering take care of veterans at practically 1,300 services nationwide. The system serves 9 million veterans yearly. Almost 168,000 veterans had Alzheimer’s illness in 2022, in line with federal estimates.
The Meals and Drug Administration accepted Leqembi on an expedited foundation in January. Nevertheless, Medicare is basically not overlaying the costly therapy, which Eisai has priced at $26,500 per 12 months.
The insurance coverage program for seniors will solely cowl therapies like Leqembi for contributors in scientific trials proper now. Eisai has already accomplished its trial.
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Medicare has agreed to supply broader protection of Leqembi as quickly because it receives full approval from the FDA. Eisai and Biogen count on the company to decide on full approval in July.
Leqembi slowed cognitive decline in folks with early Alzheimer’s by 27% in a late-stage trial. The therapy additionally carries dangers of mind swelling and bleeding.
Leqembi is run as an intravenous infusion twice month-to-month. It targets mind plaque related to the illness.
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