Vithas Xanit International Hospital, in Benalmádena, adds donanemab and lecanemab, two intravenous treatments that slow the progression of early Alzheimer's disease. The National Health System rejected funding for them.
The Vithas Xanit International Hospital, in Benalmádena, has incorporated into its treatment portfolio donanemab and lecanemab, two intravenous drugs that act on the beta-amyloid protein and allow for the slowing of the progression of Alzheimer's disease in selected patients in the early stages. The information, reported by Diario Sur, details that these therapies will be offered outside of public funding, as the National Health System declined to cover their costs.
Neurologist José Antonio Reyes, a specialist at the centre and a member of the Vithas Neurosciences Institute, points out that these treatments represent a change in the approach to a disease for which there were previously no therapies capable of partially modifying its progression.
“For the first time, we have an intravenous treatment that can partially slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease in stages of mild cognitive impairment and in stages of mild dementia.”
The two medications act on the accumulation of beta-amyloid protein in the brain, one of the processes related to the development of Alzheimer's. By removing some of that protein, they manage to slow the rate at which cognitive decline progresses in certain patients. The goal is not to cure the disease or completely halt its progression.
“These treatments will not cure the disease or stop it completely, but will slow it down slightly or moderately.”
This slowing down may allow patients to maintain their independence, autonomy, and quality of life for a longer period. Not everyone with Alzheimer's is a candidate: the indication requires a complete neurological assessment and specific clinical criteria. Additionally, these are therapies with potentially serious risks that require close monitoring.
“Patients must be carefully selected by neurologists experienced in Alzheimer's disease to ensure that the benefits outweigh the possible risks.”
The incorporation of these drugs at the hospital in Benalmádena opens the door for patients in the province who meet the criteria to receive them without relying on public funding. Those interested should consult with their neurologist to see if they fit the indicated profile for treatment.
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