Key facts
- Eli Lilly's Alzheimer's drug donanemab is approved in India.
- The drug is indicated for early-stage Alzheimer's.
- Neurologists in India have expressed concerns about the drug.
- Concerns include the drug's high cost.
- Concerns also include delayed diagnosis of Alzheimer's.
- The extent of the drug's benefit in the Indian context is questioned.
Eli Lilly's Alzheimer's drug, donanemab, has been approved in India for the treatment of early-stage Alzheimer's disease. This approval marks a significant step in making advanced Alzheimer's therapies available in the country. However, neurologists and healthcare providers in India are voicing concerns that could potentially hinder widespread access to the drug. A primary concern is the anticipated high cost of donanemab, which may place it out of reach for many patients in India. Furthermore, the issue of delayed diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is prevalent in India, meaning many patients may not be identified at the early stages where donanemab is most effective. There are also questions about the extent to which the drug's benefits, as observed in clinical trials, will translate to the Indian population, considering potential differences in genetics, lifestyle, and disease progression. These combined factors raise doubts about the practical accessibility and overall impact of donanemab in the Indian healthcare landscape.