September 16, 2025
We had a very important meeting at Duke Neurology today. BIG decision had to be made.
There are two medications available to treat people with early Alzheimer’s disease. Both medications are antibodies that bind to the amyloid protein that builds in the brain in Alzheimer’s diseases. The drugs trigger an immune response in the brain to get rid of the amyloid protein. In simple terms, getting rid of the amyloid will slow the progression of the disease and damage to the brain.
Donanemab and Lecanemab are the two options. Both drugs are administered by an intravenous infusion. Both drugs have the potential for serious and dangerous side effects. The worst side effect is brain swelling that could lead to brain bleeding. The most common side effect is infusion reactions, such as fever, chills, headache, and body aches. An MRI is given to determine if brain swelling is occurring.
After a lot of discussion today, we decided that Lecanemab has the potential to be much more beneficial to me. In a month or two, I will begin having infusions every two weeks for eighteen months. The infusions will be administered at Duke Medical. I had the option to have the infusions administered at a hospital in Charlotte (much closer to my home); but, if something goes sideways, I want the Duke Supermen and Superwomen taking care of me.
It was a long day. We are mentally, emotionally, and physically exhausted. Yet, we are confident the right treatment decision has been made.
I am still scared shitless.