FDA-approved treatments administered as intravenous infusions
Erie, Pa. (March 18, 2025) — LECOM Health is the first healthcare provider in the Erie region to offer amyloid-targeting therapies (ATT), which are monoclonal antibodies aimed at the amyloid-beta cascade for the treatment of early symptomatic Alzheimer’s Disease. FDA-approved medications being administered are Leqembi and Kisunla, which target the biomarkers related to AD and potentially slow the decline of the disease.
Medication is administered as a 30-minute to one-hour infusion every two to four weeks, depending on the selected agent, for approximately 18 months. These therapies work by binding to and removing one or multiple species of beta-amyloid, a protein that accumulates into extracellular plaques, from the brain, thus slowing the progression of AD.
“Amyloid-targeting therapies represent a groundbreaking advancement in the fight against mild Alzheimer’s disease dementia, offering renewed hope to affected individuals and their families,” said James Lin, D.O., President of the LECOM Institute for Successful Living. “Unlike traditional approaches, these therapies target one of the disease’s root causes rather than merely addressing its symptoms. By slowing disease progression, the infusions not only transform the treatment landscape but also highlight the critical importance of early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. This proactive approach marks a pivotal step in redefining Alzheimer’s, shifting it from an inevitable decline to a more manageable condition.”
Not all patients qualify, and specific criteria for positron emission tomography (PET) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) must be obtained before beginning therapy. Additionally, certain genetic factors, medications, and medical history will determine whether someone is an appropriate candidate for these treatments.
Leqembi (lecanemab-irmb) and Kisunla (donanemab-azbt) have been approved within the last two years, and ongoing studies are being completed to gather more information about their safety and effectiveness.
Side effects may include infusion-related reactions, like flu symptoms, and more severe but less common side effects include blood and fluid accumulating in the brain.
Patients who want to learn more should consult their primary care provider or neurologist to determine whether they might be suitable candidates for the treatment. Providers may refer patients to the LECOM Institute for Successful Living clinic at 5535 Peach Street by calling 814-868-3488.
###
About LECOM Health
LECOM Health is a highly innovative, multi-faceted healthcare and education system. As the nation’s only osteopathic academic health center, LECOM Health includes LECOM Medical Center and Behavioral Health Pavilion, Corry Memorial Hospital, Medical Associates of Erie, LECOM Senior Living Center, LECOM Senior Living Communities, John M.& Silvia Ferretti Medical Fitness and Wellness Center, LECOM Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, LECOM at Village Square, LECOM at Elmwood Gardens, LECOM Center for Health and Aging, the Visiting Nurse Association of Erie County, the Achievement Center of LECOM Health, and Corry Counseling Services of LECOM Health. At the core of LECOM Health is the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), the largest and one of the most affordable medical schools in the country. Since 1993, LECOM has trained nearly 18,000 healthcare professionals through its cutting-edge, student-centered College of Osteopathic Medicine, School of Pharmacy, School of Dental Medicine, School of Podiatric Medicine, School of Health Services Administration and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at campuses in Erie and Greensburg, Pa., Bradenton, Fla., and Elmira, N.Y.
For More Information:
Maddy Drayer
LECOM Health Communications and Marketing
814-812-7367