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In a significant development for Alzheimer’s disease treatment, Health Canada has granted approval for Donanemab, commercially known as Kisunla. This drug, developed by the American pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly, has been shown to slow the progression of the disease, marking a pivotal moment for patients and caregivers alike. The announcement came on Monday, following the drug’s earlier endorsement by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2024.
A Welcome Addition to Alzheimer’s Treatment
Donanemab is the second drug of its kind to receive approval in Canada, joining Lecanemab—marketed as Leqembi—which was authorised in October 2025. Both medications target amyloid proteins, which accumulate in the brain during the early stages of Alzheimer’s, contributing to cognitive decline. While these treatments are not cures, they represent a promising avenue for improving the quality of life for those in the early stages of the condition.
Clinical trials have highlighted the potential benefits of Kisunla. According to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, the drug may slow cognitive decline, enhancing memory, thinking skills, and daily functioning in certain patients. Eli Lilly’s statements reveal that participants in the trials could cease treatment once their amyloid plaques were eliminated—some after just six months, and nearly half after a year.
Clinical Findings and Patient Benefits
The data from the trials underscore the drug’s efficacy, particularly among early-stage patients. Those less advanced in their disease experienced a remarkable 35 per cent reduction in decline, as measured by the integrated Alzheimer’s Disease Rating Scale (iADRS), which evaluates cognitive and functional abilities. Across all participants, there was an overall 22 per cent deceleration of the disease’s progression.
Christina Scicluna, CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Canada, described this approval as a “hopeful milestone” for individuals living with early Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. She emphasised the importance of ongoing research and advocacy, stating that “while not a cure, it shows how far we’ve come.” Scicluna reassured the community that efforts will continue to ensure access to new treatments alongside practical support systems.
Expert Insights on Treatment Impact
Dr. Sharon Cohen, a neurologist and medical director at the Toronto Memory Program, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the drug’s ability to help early-stage patients maintain their independence. “Changing the downward trajectory of Alzheimer’s disease is of the utmost importance,” she stated. Many individuals at this stage of the disease live independently and lead active lives, often facing anxiety about their future.
It’s crucial to note that Health Canada has restricted Donanemab’s use to adults who do not carry the APOE4 gene, a genetic variant that significantly heightens the risk of developing dementia. Moreover, patients may experience side effects, including amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), which can manifest as temporary brain swelling.
Future Considerations for Accessibility
Following this approval, Canada’s Drug Agency will evaluate whether Donanemab will be included in provincial and territorial drug plans. The Alzheimer Society of Canada has expressed its commitment to advocating for public funding of the drug, although it cautions that it could take up to two years for new medications to become publicly covered post-approval. Those with private insurance or extended health benefits may gain access to the treatment more swiftly.
Why it Matters
The approval of Donanemab is not just a milestone for pharmaceutical progress; it represents a beacon of hope for countless families grappling with the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease. As the healthcare landscape evolves, the focus must remain on ensuring equitable access to these vital treatments. By championing research and supporting advocacy efforts, society can foster an environment where individuals living with Alzheimer’s can not only manage their symptoms but also thrive in their daily lives.