FDA Accepts LEQEMBI® IQLIK™ (lecanemab-irmb) Supplemental Biologics License Application as a Subcutaneous Starting Dose for the Treatment of Early Alzheimer's Disease under Priority Review

Core Viewpoint - The FDA has accepted for review Eisai's Supplemental Biologics License Application for LEQEMBI IQLIK, which, if approved, would be the first anti-amyloid treatment allowing at-home injections for Alzheimer's disease, with a decision expected by May 24, 2026 [2][3]. Group 1: Product Details - LEQEMBI IQLIK is a subcutaneous autoinjector for lecanemab, intended for weekly starting doses in treating early Alzheimer's disease [2][3]. - The proposed dosing regimen involves two 250 mg injections, allowing patients to choose between subcutaneous or intravenous administration throughout treatment [3][4]. - The injection time for each 250 mg dose is approximately 15 seconds, potentially reducing healthcare resource utilization compared to intravenous dosing [3]. Group 2: Clinical Data and Safety - Clinical data supporting the sBLA indicates that the 500 mg subcutaneous administration achieves equivalent exposure to the bi-weekly intravenous dosing, with similar clinical and biomarker benefits [4]. - The safety profile of subcutaneous administration is comparable to intravenous administration, with less than 2% incidence of systemic injection or infusion-related reactions [4]. - LEQEMBI is currently approved in 53 countries and regions, with ongoing regulatory reviews in 7 additional countries [6][30]. Group 3: Mechanism of Action - LEQEMBI targets both protofibrils and amyloid plaques, which are critical in the neurotoxic process of Alzheimer's disease, potentially impacting tau pathology [5][29]. - Protofibrils are identified as the most toxic species contributing to cognitive decline in Alzheimer's, and reducing them may mitigate neuronal damage [7]. Group 4: Collaboration and Development - Eisai leads the global development and regulatory submissions for lecanemab, with Biogen co-commercializing and promoting the product [6][33]. - The collaboration between Eisai and BioArctic has been ongoing since 2005, focusing on the development and commercialization of Alzheimer's treatments [34]. Group 5: Market Position - The approval of LEQEMBI IQLIK would enhance treatment options for Alzheimer's patients, particularly in the early stages of the disease, and could streamline the treatment process [2][3][4]. - The product's introduction aligns with the growing demand for innovative therapies in the Alzheimer's treatment landscape, addressing significant unmet medical needs [35][38].