## Biogen to stop manufacturing controversial Alzheimer’s medication
Biogen’s chief executive, Christopher A. Viehbacher, expressed the significance of breakthroughs in creating new drugs and the impacts they have on future developments. The company’s drug, ADUHELM, was pivotal in paving the way for a new class of medications and reignited investments in the field, according to Viehbacher.
Despite being hailed as breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s care, both Aduhelm and Leqembi showed limited benefits for patients during their clinical trials, while also revealing potential hazardous side effects such as brain bleeding and swelling. Medicare has imposed restrictions on the coverage of Alzheimer’s drugs with accelerated approval, allowing access for only those participating in specific clinical trials, none of which are currently enrolling. Moreover, the high annual costs exceeding $25,000 for both Aduhelm and Leqembi add to the challenge of accessing these medications.
An FDA spokesperson indicated that patients already on Aduhelm can continue their treatment until November 1 and are encouraged to consult their healthcare providers to explore available options.
