Geripal-podcast

We’ve talked at length on prior podcasts about the failures of aducnumab, Biogen, and the FDA’s decision to approve it.   But wait, there’s a shiny new anti-amyloid drug, lecanemab!  (No it’s not just the French version of Aducanumab).   In an article in the NEJM (a published article this time, wonder of wonders!) lecanemab was shown to slow the rate of cognitive decline by 0.45 points on an 18 point cognitive scale compared to placebo.  Wow!  Wow?  Wait, what?   On today’s podcast we talk with Jason Karlawish, who we’ve had on previously talking about his book The Problem of Alzheimer’s and with Aaron Kesselhim, to discuss FDA approval of Aducanumab, as well as frequent guest and host Ken Covinsky.   They debate today’s central question: is it time for geriatricians to get on board with lecanemab?  Along the way we address: Is this degree of slowed cognitive decline meaningful to patients or care partners? What about the burdens, risks, and harms? Every 2 week visits for infusions, regular monitoring for