A Breakthrough in Alzheimer’s Care: What Canada’s Approval of Lecanemab Means for Patients and Families

Alzheimer’s disease remains one of the most feared and life-altering diagnoses for patients and families alike. For decades, treatment options have been limited to symptom management rather than meaningful disease modification. That landscape has now begun to change.

In January 2026, Canada reached a historic milestone with the first administration of lecanemab, a newly approved Alzheimer’s medication that has been shown to slow disease progression by approximately 30%. While this represents real hope, it also raises urgent questions around access, affordability, and the role of healthcare professionals in ensuring appropriate, equitable use.

What Is Lecanemab and Why Does It Matter?

Lecanemab is a monoclonal antibody designed to target and remove amyloid plaque—a harmful protein that accumulates in the brain years before Alzheimer’s symptoms appear. Clinical data suggest that consistent treatment can slow cognitive decline and extend a patient’s ability to live independently.

According to neurologists involved in early Canadian use, long-term data indicate that four years of treatment may extend independent living by up to one additional year. For patients and families, that additional time can be invaluable.

Canada was the last G7 nation to approve this therapy, making its arrival particularly significant for those who have been waiting years for meaningful treatment options.

Why Early Diagnosis and Intervention Are Critical

One of the most important lessons emerging from this breakthrough is the importance of early detection. Alzheimer’s-related brain changes can begin decades before symptoms appear, and lecanemab is most effective in the early stages of disease.

This underscores the growing need for:

• Timely cognitive screening
• Proactive conversations with healthcare providers
• Coordinated care between physicians, neurologists, and pharmacists

At Centrum Pharmacy, we routinely emphasize that medications alone are not enough—the right patient, the right timing, and the right clinical oversight are essential to achieving meaningful benefit.

The Cost Barrier: A Growing Equity Issue

Despite Health Canada approval, lecanemab is not yet publicly funded. Provincial drug plans and the Canada Drug Agency have not issued coverage recommendations, leaving families responsible for the full cost.

• Estimated cost: ~$32,000 per year
• Administration: Biweekly intravenous infusions
• Cost variability: Depends on patient weight and duration

This creates a significant equity gap, where access is determined by financial means rather than medical need. Many clinicians and patient advocates are calling for public funding to ensure that all Canadians—not just those who can afford it—can benefit from this advancement.

The Role of Pharmacists in Alzheimer’s Care

As Alzheimer’s treatments become more complex and specialized, pharmacist involvement is more important than ever. Pharmacists play a critical role in:

• Assessing medication appropriateness
• Monitoring safety and side effects
• Supporting adherence to long-term therapy
• Educating patients and caregivers about expectations and limitations
• Coordinating care with physicians and specialists

At Centrum Pharmacy, our pharmacists work closely with Orleans Family Health Clinic to ensure patients are not navigating these decisions alone. This integrated model allows us to support patients through diagnosis, treatment initiation, and long-term management—especially when new, high-impact therapies are involved.

Looking Ahead: Hope With Responsibility

Lecanemab is not a cure, and it is not appropriate for every patient. However, it represents a meaningful shift toward disease-modifying treatment in Alzheimer’s care.

With proper screening, pharmacist-led counselling, and physician oversight, therapies like lecanemab can help patients preserve independence and quality of life for longer—while ensuring resources are used responsibly and safely.

At Centrum Pharmacy, we remain committed to evidence-based care, patient advocacy, and collaborative healthcare models that put patients and families first.

If you or a loved one has concerns about memory changes or Alzheimer’s risk, speak with your healthcare team early. Timing matters—and informed guidance makes all the difference.

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.