Partners Eisai Co., Ltd (TYO: 4523) and Biogen Inc. (NASDAQ: BIIB) have jointly announced the commercial launch of their co-developed amyloid-beta (Aβ) monoclonal antibody, Leqembi (lecanemab), in South Korea. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) had previously approved the drug in May 2024 for the treatment of adult patients with mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or mild AD dementia, marking an important step in the treatment of early AD.
Leqembi’s Mechanism of Action and Global Strategy
Leqembi selectively binds to soluble Aβ aggregates (protofibrils) and insoluble Aβ aggregates (fibrils), which are major components of Aβ plaques in AD, thereby reducing both Aβ protofibrils and Aβ plaques in the brain. Globally, Eisai leads the development and regulatory filing activities for the drug, while Biogen is responsible for co-commercializing and co-promoting the product with Eisai holding the final decision-making authority.
Distribution and Support Activities in South Korea
In South Korea, Eisai Korea Inc. will take on the distribution of Leqembi and conduct information provision activities, including the Patient Assistance Programme. This comprehensive approach ensures that patients have access to the treatment and the necessary support services, further emphasizing the companies’ commitment to improving the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.-Fineline Info & Tech
