New Hope for Memory Loss: India Gives Green Light to Breakthrough Alzheimer’s Drug
In a significant development for geriatric healthcare in India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has officially approved Donanemab, a new therapy designed to fight Alzheimer’s disease. Manufactured by the US-based pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly, this drug is poised to hit the Indian market within the next few months, offering a fresh avenue of treatment for those battling early-stage memory loss.
How the Drug Works
Unlike traditional treatments that only manage symptoms, Donanemab is classified as a "disease-modifying" therapy. It is administered via monthly injections and works by targeting specific proteins in the brain known as amyloid plaques.Getty Images
Scientific consensus suggests that the buildup of these sticky beta-amyloid proteins is a primary driver of Alzheimer’s. By helping the body clear these plaques, the drug aims to slow down the decline in thinking skills and the ability to perform daily tasks. It is specifically approved for patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or mild dementia.
Why This Matters for India
The timing of this approval is critical. With India’s population aging rapidly, the burden of neurological disorders is growing. Estimates suggest that by 2030, nearly 80 lakh (8 million) Indians will be living with dementia. Winselow Tucker, the head of Lilly India, described the approval as a major milestone, noting that the therapy aims to buy patients more quality time with their families.macrovector/Indiapicture
Cost and Safety Concerns
While the drug offers hope, it comes with significant financial and medical considerations. The pricing for the Indian market has not been announced yet, but in the United States, a year’s course of Donanemab costs approximately $32,000 (roughly Rs 28.34 lakh).
Furthermore, medical experts advise caution. Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a leading neurologist, clarified that while the drug slows the disease, it is not a cure. There are also safety risks; clinical trials have linked the drug to side effects such as brain swelling and bleeding, technically known as Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities (ARIA).
The Road Ahead
Since there is currently no specific data on how Indian patients react to the drug, Eli Lilly has committed to conducting a Phase IV trial (post-marketing surveillance) to monitor safety and efficacy locally.
Due to the high cost and the requirement for advanced brain scans to monitor side effects, access to Donanemab may initially be restricted to major medical hubs in metropolitan cities. However, for many facing the daunting prospect of Alzheimer's, this approval represents a vital step forward in medical intervention.
