The Food and Drug Administration said it approved the drug from Biogen based on results that seemed "reasonably likely" to benefit Alzheimer's patients. The new drug, which Biogen developed with Japan's Eisai Co., did not reverse mental decline, only slowing it in one study. Dr Caleb Alexander, an FDA adviser who recommended against the drug's approval, said he was "surprised and disappointed" by the decision. On one side, groups representing Alzheimer's patients and their families say any new therapy — even one of small benefit — warrants approval. With FDA approval, aducanumab is certain to be covered by virtually all insurers, including Medicare, the government plan for seniors that covers more than 60 million people.

Source: New Zealand Herald June 07, 2021 21:40 UTC