Alzheimer’s disease is a scary enough diagnosis all on its own. Navigating the path of quality care and treatment brings on a trauma all its own.
When the FDA does a questionable job of approving a medication for use, that doesn’t make the situation any easier. In fact, it makes it all that more difficult. Surely “they” wouldn’t approve a drug that wasn’t both safe AND effective?
Interesting facts about the recently (June 7th) approved Alzheimer’s drug Aduhelm:
* Approved by the FDA DESPITE the nearly unanimous conclusion of an independent panel of experts convened (by the FDA itself) that there was inadequate evidence that the drug was effective in slowing cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
* High dose therapy of the drug over an 18 month period was found to slow the progression of the disease by four months in one study. A second clinical trial failed to show any slowed progression of disease.
* The drug itself will cost an estimated $56,000 per year per patient.
* Potential side effects were found to be common. Brain bleeds and brain swelling was seen in 41% of patients treated with 10mg of Aduhlem.
I don’t know….. potential brain bleeds and brain swelling ⚖️ seems like a potentially pretty high price to pay for a $56,000/yr drug that may or may not work.
A well informed patient or care giver is absolutely critical when navigating the healthcare system. Do your research friends.
xoxo~ liz
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