3 unanswered questions about the newly approved Alzheimer's drug Leqembi
NBCJUN 2023
UK: NHS Denies Coverage for Two Alzheimer's Drugs Over Cost, Efficacy Concerns
Above: Alzheimer's treatment Leqembi is prepared in Abington, Penn., on Nov. 7, 2023. Image copyright: Hannah Yoon/Washington Post/Getty Images
The Spin
Government-critical narrative
These groundbreaking drugs offer the first real hope for slowing Alzheimer's progression, giving families precious extra months of independence and quality time together. The NHS system is failing patients by prioritizing cost over breakthrough science, leaving those who can't afford private treatment without access to life-changing medications. Britain risks falling behind other countries and losing its position as a leader in medical innovation.
Pro-government narrative
NICE made the right call by protecting taxpayer money from treatments that provide minimal real-world benefits at astronomical costs. The modest four-to-six-month delay doesn't justify spending that could fund entire nursing salaries or displace other essential services helping more patients. More effective treatments are in development that will offer greater value, as questions remain regarding the effectiveness of these drugs.