aducanumab Alternatives: What Options Exist for Alzheimer’s Treatment

If you’ve heard about aducanumab and wonder if there are other choices, you’re not alone. Many patients and caregivers want to know what else is out there that might slow memory loss or improve daily function. Below we break down the most talked‑about alternatives, from FDA‑approved antibodies to promising new drugs and simple lifestyle tweaks.

Approved Antibody Therapies

The first alternative many consider is lecanemab. It got full FDA approval in early 2023 for people with mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s or early‑stage disease. Lecanemab works by targeting the same amyloid plaques that aducanumab attacks, but its trial data showed a steadier slowing of decline over 18 months. Doctors usually give it via an IV infusion every two weeks, and patients need regular MRI scans to watch for brain swelling.

Donanemab is another antibody that has cleared the FDA’s fast‑track pathway. While still awaiting final approval, phase 3 results suggest a noticeable pause in cognitive decline for up to a year after treatment starts. Donanemab targets a slightly different form of amyloid called pyroglutamate‑modified plaques, which some researchers think might be more harmful. If you’re eligible for a clinical trial or early access program, donanemab could be worth discussing with your neurologist.

Emerging Treatments & Lifestyle Choices

Beyond the big antibodies, several drugs are moving through late‑stage trials. Small‑molecule inhibitors like ALZT-OP1 combine anti‑inflammatory and amyloid‑clearing actions in a pill form, which many find easier than IV infusions. Although results are still mixed, early data show modest improvements in memory tests for participants who start the medication before severe symptoms appear.

Non‑drug strategies also play a big role when you’re looking at alternatives to aducanumab. Regular aerobic exercise—think brisk walking or cycling three times a week—has been shown to boost blood flow to the brain and may reduce plaque buildup. A Mediterranean diet rich in fish, nuts, olive oil, and leafy greens supports neuron health and can complement medical therapy.

Finally, cognitive training apps and social engagement activities help keep neural pathways active. While they don’t replace medication, combining these habits with an approved antibody or a trial drug often leads to better overall outcomes.

If you’re navigating the maze of Alzheimer’s options, start by asking your doctor about lecanemab or any ongoing trials for donanemab and small‑molecule agents. Pair medical choices with regular exercise, a brain‑friendly diet, and mental challenges for a well‑rounded approach. The right mix can give you more control over the disease progression than relying on a single drug alone.