Eisai Co., Ltd. and Biogen Inc. have announced the U.S. availability of LEQEMBI IQLIK, a once-weekly subcutaneous injection for initiating therapy in adults with early Alzheimer's disease (AD). This new treatment option offers an alternative to intravenous (IV) dosing, enhancing convenience and flexibility for patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to AD.
LEQEMBI IQLIK is administered through an autoinjector, with an approved initiation regimen of 500 mg given weekly as two 250 mg injections. The treatment can also be used for maintenance dosing at 360 mg weekly following 18 months of IV or subcutaneous treatment. The flexibility to switch between IV and subcutaneous administration aims to reduce the time and resources associated with traditional IV infusions.
The introduction of LEQEMBI IQLIK is expected to lower barriers for patients starting and continuing treatment by allowing at-home administration, thus reducing the need for clinic visits. This approach not only facilitates patient mobility but also potentially decreases healthcare resources involved in IV dosing.
To support the rollout, Eisai and Biogen are providing resources for patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and pharmacies. These include instructional videos, welcome kits, and the LEQEMBI Companion app, which offers education and tracking tools for patients. Support through the LEQEMBI Specialty Pharmacy Network includes assistance with prescription fulfillment, insurance navigation, and educational support during the initial months of therapy.
Financial assistance is also available through Eisai’s Patient Assistance Program, offering LEQEMBI at no cost to eligible uninsured patients who meet specific criteria. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure accessibility to the treatment for those in need.
LEQEMBI is indicated for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, specifically for patients at the mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia stage, aligning with the population studied in clinical trials. Eisai leads the global development and regulatory submissions for lecanemab, with both Eisai and Biogen co-commercializing and co-promoting the product.
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