ICER Issues Final Report on Alzheimer’s Drug Leqembi

Following a session of public comments, the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER) has issued its final evidence report on Eisai’s Alzheimer’s drug Leqembi (lecanemab). The independent organization valued the treatment between $8,900 – $21,500 per year. This is notably lower than the current list price of $26,500 per year set by the manufacturer.

According to ICER’s Chief Medical Officer, David Rind, MD, “Current evidence strongly suggests that lecanemab mildly slows the loss of cognition in patients with early Alzheimer’s disease. However, given the risks of brain swelling and bleeding, particularly when lecanemab is used outside of clinical trials, our report concluded that significant uncertainties remain as to whether the average benefits of lecanemab will exceed its risks. A majority of the California Technology Assessment Forum was clearly unconvinced that the current evidence adequately demonstrates that lecanemab provides a net benefit to patients. In addition, using the best current data from the clinical trials, at its announced list price lecanemab exceeds typical thresholds for cost-effectiveness and, given the large number of patients with Alzheimer’s disease, it is particularly important that therapies for Alzheimer’s disease be priced in line with their value to patients”

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(Source: ICER, April 17^th, 2023)