Eisai, Biogen Launch Leqembi for Alzheimer's in South Korea

Eisai and Biogen have launched Leqembi® (lecanemab) in South Korea for the treatment of mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer's disease, following its approval by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in May 2024. This monoclonal antibody targets amyloid-beta aggregates, reducing both protofibrils and plaques in the brain, and is the first treatment shown to slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients. With an estimated 900,000 dementia patients in South Korea, Leqembi aims to address the significant health and economic burden associated with the disease, which costs an average of 21.1 million KRW per patient annually. Eisai leads the global development of Leqembi, with co-commercialization efforts alongside Biogen, while Eisai Korea Inc. will handle distribution and awareness initiatives in the region. The launch reflects ongoing efforts to combat Alzheimer's disease and improve patient outcomes in South Korea.