Japan set to approve Alzheimer's drug Leqembi as soon as Monday

Eisai-Biogen treatment clears fast-track review after U.S. green light in August

20230922N Eisai

Lecanemab, branded as Leqembi, has been shown in trials to slow the rate of disease progression by 27%. (Photo courtesy of Eisai)

ASUKA OKUBO, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Japan's health ministry is preparing to formally approve as early as Monday the manufacture and sale of an Alzheimer's drug developed by Japanese pharmaceutical company Eisai and U.S. partner Biogen.

Lecanemab, marketed as Leqembi, will be Japan's first treatment for the disease that has been shown to be effective at slowing its progression.

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