Aduhelm is the first drug in 20 years to be approved by the FDA to treat Alzheimer’s

Washington, D.C. (January 7, 2022) – A study released today shows that the number of adults living with dementia worldwide is expected to nearly triple by 2050 to 153 million. The first-of-its-kind study comes just days before the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is slated to make an announcement that will dramatically impact the lives of seniors across the country. The agency has until Wednesday to announce whether it will cover the cost of Aduhelm, and the entire class of anti-amyloid drugs, under Medicare Part B. Aduhelm is the first disease-modifying drug to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of Alzheimer’s in nearly two decades.

“We have a worldwide crisis on our hands, including here in the United States where someone develops Alzheimer’s every 60 seconds. CMS has a choice: save lives and give hope by covering the first drug approved by the FDA in 20 years to treat Alzheimer’s, or tell Alzheimer’s patients and their loved ones they’re on their own,” said George Vradenburg, chair and co-founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s. “What is so important about this decision is that it not only affects Aduhelm, but this entire class of drugs. If CMS denies coverage, it would limit access to this class of drugs to the wealthy.”

The FDA, the only federal agency with the credentials and legal authority to approve pharmaceuticals, accelerated the approval process for Aduhelm because it sees the promise this treatment holds. Accelerated approval is hardly unusual. The FDA has approved more than 250 drugs through its Accelerated Approval Pathway.

“Patients and their doctors should have a choice in determining what treatment works best for them,” Vradenburg added. “Further, CMS should respect the FDA’s approval of treatments and issue a National Coverage Determination (NCD) that ensures access for every patient for whom this class of drugs is appropriate. Anything less than that means people will suffer and their quality of life in the meantime will suffer.”

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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.