Eisai Co., Ltd. and Biogen Inc. announced new data at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2026 in London, revealing that the LEQEMBI (lecanemab) subcutaneous autoinjector formulation offers efficacy and safety comparable to intravenous administration for early Alzheimer’s disease treatment.
The data, presented in the session titled “Lecanemab Subcutaneous Formulation in Early Alzheimer’s Disease: Emerging Clinical Evidence and Practical Use Considerations,” highlighted that the subcutaneous option provides a convenient alternative to intravenous dosing. This could enhance access and delivery of care across various healthcare settings.
Key findings from the lecanemab SC-AI development program showed that once-weekly 500 mg SC-AI achieved drug exposure similar to the approved IV regimen (10 mg/kg every two weeks), with an exposure ratio of 104% (90% CI: 99.1%–109%). This supports the expectation of similar clinical efficacy and safety, independent of the administration route.
The study demonstrated consistent results across patient populations, with bioequivalence achieved in terms of amyloid removal and clinical efficacy. Patients can switch between IV and SC administration, offering greater flexibility. The safety profile of SC-AI was consistent with the IV formulation, with low incidence of anti-drug antibodies and no neutralizing antibodies observed.
Real-world evidence from two U.S. Alzheimer’s treatment centers supported these findings. At one center, 28 patients receiving SC administration showed slower cognitive decline over 36 months compared to a matched cohort. Another case series indicated that 91% of patients showed improvement or stability on MMSE scores with SC administration.
Patient and care partner surveys reported high satisfaction with subcutaneous LEQEMBI, with satisfaction rates between 75% to 97%, convenience ratings from 83% to 97%, and willingness to recommend treatment ranging from 92% to 100%.
Eisai leads the development and regulatory submissions for lecanemab globally, with co-commercialization and co-promotion efforts alongside Biogen.
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