TWO NEW Alzheimer’s drugs, donanemab and lecanemab, will not be made available on the NHS due to concerns over cost and limited effectiveness, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
These medications, which work by clearing a protein build-up linked to Alzheimer’s, were hailed as scientific breakthroughs for slowing cognitive decline. They do not stop or reverse the disease, but can delay progression from mild to moderate dementia by four to six months. Supporters say this time could be meaningful for patients, allowing for greater independence, social engagement, and participation in family life.
However, NICE concluded the benefit does not justify the estimated annual cost of up to £25,000 per patient. With approximately 70,000 eligible individuals in England, the NHS bill could reach £1.5 billion per year, not including the added burden of infusions, brain scans, and managing side effects.
Helen Knight, Director of Medicines Evaluation, NICE, acknowledged the disappointment but stressed that funding the drugs could mean cutting other vital services. “The benefits are modest at best and require substantial NHS resources,” she said.
While charities like Alzheimer’s Research UK and the Alzheimer’s Society criticised the decision as a failure of the healthcare system, some dementia experts supported it. Tom Dening, University of Nottingham, UK, called the drugs’ benefits ‘minimal’ and argued the focus should remain on proven care and support services.
The pharmaceutical firms that developed the treatments intend to appeal the final decision that is due by 23 July.
Despite the setback, hope remains, with 138 dementia drugs currently in trials, experts say more effective, safer options may soon emerge, offering renewed optimism for the future of Alzheimer’s treatment.
Reference
BBC News. Breakthrough Alzheimer’s drugs too pricey for NHS. 2025. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cq8zxx9kk0ko. Last accessed: 20 June 2025.
