Leqembi
(Lecanemab)
Provider Summary
Primary Uses
Alzheimer’s disease in early symptomatic stages (provider selection criteria apply).
Mechanism of action
Monoclonal antibody targeting aggregated beta‑amyloid.
Pre-treatment / baseline requirement
Baseline MRI; scheduled MRI monitoring for ARIA per PI/protocol.
Common side effects
Infusion-related reactions, ARIA-related findings, headache.
Serious adverse effects / key risks
ARIA (edema/hemorrhage) and intracerebral hemorrhage risk; hypersensitivity.
Referral requirements
Standard infusion referral form + drug-specific checklist
ARIA monitoring
Obtain brain MRI at baseline and prior to the 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 14th infusions; additional MRI may be indicated if symptoms occur.
Patient & Caregiver Education
What it treats
Alzheimer’s disease in early symptomatic stages.
How it works
Targets amyloid in the brain; requires MRI safety monitoring for ARIA.
MRI monitoring
Your clinician will schedule MRIs at specific times early in treatment to monitor for ARIA. Report new headache, confusion, vision changes, weakness, dizziness, or seizures promptly.
Before treatment
Tell your clinician if you have an active infection/fever, are pregnant/planning pregnancy, or have major heart/nerve problems. Depending on the medication, you may need labs or screening tests (e.g., TB/hepatitis) and a vaccine review.
Common side effects
Infusion-related reactions, ARIA-related findings, headache.
Get urgent help for
ARIA and intracerebral hemorrhage risk; hypersensitivity.