Lecanemab, a drug that has been making headlines in the fight against Alzheimer’s, has officially received a license for use in the UK.
For patients and families hoping for new treatment options, this is a moment of cautious optimism.
Spending Watchdog Questions Value
However, not everyone is celebrating. The UK’s health spending watchdog has raised eyebrows over the cost of the drug.
After reviewing the clinical trial results, they concluded that the benefits were “too small” to justify the expense for the National Health Service.
Weighing Benefits Against Budget
For the NHS, which faces finite resources and endless demand, the question is always about balance.
While Lecanemab may help slow Alzheimer’s progression for some, the watchdog believes the improvement shown in trials is modest compared with the high price tag, making widespread use difficult to justify.
The Debate Among Experts
Experts and patient groups are now debating the decision.
Some argue that even a small benefit is meaningful for those battling the disease, while others emphasize the need to prioritize treatments that offer significant impact across larger patient populations.
Looking Ahead for Patients
For now, patients and doctors must weigh the pros and cons carefully.
The license opens the door for use, but questions about affordability, access, and measurable benefit remain.
It’s a reminder that medical breakthroughs don’t just need approval—they need to be practical for real-world healthcare systems.
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