Seoul, South Korea – As the launch of Lecanemab, a jointly developed Alzheimer's drug by Japan's Eisai and US-based Biogen, approaches in South Korea, concerns over its safety persist. The drug's recent rejection in both Europe and Australia has raised questions about its safety and reliability. Additionally, the drug has faced controversy in South Korea after being approved without undergoing a central pharmaceutical review committee.

However, experts, including the Korean Dementia Society, have downplayed safety concerns, expressing optimism about the drug's potential.

Choi Seong-hye, president of the Korean Dementia Society, expressed excitement about Lecanemab during a press conference at the society's 2024 autumn academic conference. She presented the latest clinical findings on Alzheimer's disease and highlighted the promising results of Lecanemab trials.

"In the Phase 3 study of Lecanemab, the incidence of simple allergic reactions was 26.4% overall, and 12.4% among Asians," Choi said. "Brain swelling and bleeding occurred in 12.6% of participants overall and 6.5% of Asians."

Lecanemab is an antibody designed to target and remove amyloid beta, a protein that accumulates in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. While the drug has shown promise in reducing amyloid beta plaques, concerns about its side effects remain.   

"While the brain swelling and bleeding associated with Lecanemab are concerning, it's important to note that these side effects can also occur naturally in Alzheimer's patients," Choi explained. "Additionally, these side effects can be monitored and managed."

She emphasized that the potential benefits of Lecanemab outweigh the risks, as it offers a novel approach to treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting the underlying cause. "Unlike existing treatments, Lecanemab can address the root cause of the disease," she said.

Choi also expressed enthusiasm for the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in Alzheimer's diagnosis and treatment. "AI can enable personalized cognitive therapy and early diagnosis," she said. "We have high hopes that AI will revolutionize Alzheimer's care."

In conclusion, while concerns about the safety of Lecanemab persist, experts remain optimistic about its potential to revolutionize the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. As the drug nears its launch in South Korea, the medical community will be closely watching to see how it performs in real-world settings.

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