Washington, D.C. (December 1, 2022) – Yesterday, at the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) conference, researchers provided additional information on two Phase III studies evaluating gantenerumab in Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment. Though it is disappointing that it is not an effective treatment for patients, the data shared yesterday offer further evidence that the science behind targeting amyloid plaques in the brain to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s remains sound. It also serves as an example that every drug in this class is different and that each one should be considered by regulators on its own merits.

George Vradenburg, chair and co-founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, issued the following statement in response to Roche’s newly released data: 

“We’re disappointed but one only has to look at yesterday’s lecanemab news to remain confident that progress is being made. Science is additive and others in the industry will now build on the data that Roche has shared. We are grateful to Roche for their commitment to fully exploring the reasons these trials did not meet their objectives, so the whole field can learn and patients will ultimately benefit. Slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s will have a direct impact on patients’ daily lives, giving them greater independence for a longer period of time while preserving their quality of life.

“We are thankful for Roche’s commitment to continuing its research and call on other pharmaceutical manufacturers to do the same. Millions of people are counting on them. They are also counting on the federal government to do the right thing by considering each drug on its own merits when determining FDA approval as well as decisions regarding Medicare coverage. Alzheimer’s patients cannot afford a repeat of CMS’ disastrous decision in April where, for the first time in history, the agency threw the baby out with the bathwater by denying coverage for every drug in this class.” 

About UsAgainstAlzheimer’s

UsAgainstAlzheimer’s exists to conquer Alzheimer’s disease. We take on the toughest problems; bring all of “Us” together to break down barriers; advocate for research that will speed treatments to market; and drive changes that matter most to people living with the disease. We will not rest until brain-span equals lifespan - for everyone.