Key facts about Leqembi
What is Leqembi?
Leqembi is the brand name for lecanemab-irmb and is available for intravenous or subcutaneous use.
What dosages is Leqembi available in?
Leqembi is available as a 200 mg/2 mL (100 mg/mL) and 500 mg/5 mL (100 mg/mL) solution in a single-dose vial for IV infusion and a 360 mg/1.8 mL (200 mg/mL) single-dose prefilled autoinjector for subcutaneous use.
What is Leqembi used for?
Leqembi is a type of monoclonal antibody used for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease in patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia stage of disease.
How does Leqembi work?
Leqembi is an amyloid beta-directed antibody. It attaches to proteins in the brain called amyloid beta (or beta-amyloid), which clump together In Alzheimer’s disease. This forms plaques that can be harmful to your brain cells. Leqembi works to reduce the buildup of these plaques in the brain to help slow the pregression of Alzheimer’s.
How do I take Leqembi?
Thee recommended starting dosage is 10 mg/kg once every 2 weeks as an IV infusion over approximately one hour.
After 18 months, continue treatment once every 2 weeks or you can change to an IV or subcutaneous maintenance dose.
Recommended maintenance dosage:
- IV infusion: 10 mg/kg once every 4 weeks
- Oubcutaneous injection: 360 mg administered once a week
Is it safe for me to take Leqembi?
Leqembi is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication in the following:
- Serious hypersensitivity to
- Lecanemab-irmb or to any of the excipients in the product
Leqembi Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Leqembi:
- Infusion-related reaction
- Bleeding in the brain
- Swelling or fluid buildup in the brain
- Headache
Leqembi Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Leqembi. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Problems in the brain: headache, confusion, dizziness, vision changes, trouble communicating, weakness, trouble walking, nausea, seizure
- Infusion-related reaction: trouble breathing, dizziness, fever, chills, body aches, joint pain, pounding chest, nausea, vomiting
- Severe allergic reaction: swelling in the face or throat, tightening of the throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Leqembi
There are no major drug interactions listed for this medication. However, always let your physician and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking.
Who makes Leqembi?
Eisai Inc.
Is Leqembi safe in pregnancy?
It is not known whether this medication is safe for you and your unborn baby during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have plans on becoming pregnant. They will recommend what is best for you.













