Dementia book updates
Ability Training Awards, with Able Training
Walking Alongside, Section 5
Lecanemab and donanemab: are the new Alzheimer's drugs available on the NHS?
Last checked: 16 October 2026. Checked by Able Training Support Ltd.
What the book says (October 2026)
Two newer drugs, lecanemab and donanemab, target the amyloid protein in Alzheimer's disease and can slow decline slightly in some people in the early stages. They are licensed in the UK but are not currently recommended by NICE for use on the NHS, because of their cost, their side effects and the size of the benefit.
What has changed since
- Still not available on the NHS. Both drug companies won appeals against NICE in March 2026, so NICE is looking at both drugs again.
- In July 2026 NICE said the maker of lecanemab is in commercial talks with NHS England, and that no date has been set for a decision on either drug.
Why it matters
Families often ask about these drugs after news stories. They work only in early Alzheimer's disease, need regular brain scans to check for side effects, and are not suitable for everyone.
What you can do
If a person or family asks, point them to their GP or memory service. Don't promise or rule out treatment.
Official sources
Other updates
About these pages. The books Walking Alongside: Understanding Dementia and Dementia Awareness were written by Andy Baker and Meghan Earle and created by Able Training Support Ltd. These update pages are checked and kept up to date by Able Training, and published by Ability Training Awards.
These pages give general information about England. They are not legal or medical advice. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own laws and guidance. Always follow your organisation's current policy, and speak to your manager if you are unsure.
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