Alzheimer's treatments arrive in Greece via monoclonal antibodies

New monoclonal antibody therapies aimed at slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease have become available in Greece. At least 35 patients have already begun receiving donanemab, a treatment that targets beta-amyloid protein accumulation in the brain.

Neurologist and President of the Alzheimer Society of Athens, Paraskevi Sakka, noted that while the treatment is not a definitive cure, clinical studies show it can slow cognitive and functional decline by up to 35%. The therapy is administered intravenously once a month at specialized hospitals, including the University Hospitals of Patras and Larissa, as well as Attikon, Evangelismos, Tzaneio, Gennimatas, and Ygeia.

Eligibility is limited to patients in the early stages of the disease who meet specific medical criteria. The treatment is administered through the Electronic Pre-approval System (SIP) as it is not covered by standard reimbursement procedures. Potential side effects include brain edema and hemorrhages in approximately 20% of patients, though serious symptomatic cases occur in less than 6%.

In addition to these medical advancements, there are plans to strengthen the dementia care network with 19 new Day Centers expected to operate in the coming months.