Alzheimer's disease and other dementias

• 1993Tacrine approved (FDA)
• 1996Donepezil approved (FDA)
• 1998Rivastigmine approved (FDA)
• 2000Ioflupane approved (FDA)
• 2001Galantamine approved (FDA)
• 2002Memantine approved (FDA)
• 2008Tetrabenazine approved (FDA)
• 2012Florbetapir approved (FDA)
• 2013Flutemetamol approved (FDA)
• 2014Florbetaben approved (FDA)

Trials started per year, stacked by phase (darker = later phase). Source: ClinicalTrials.gov via Clin2, which tracks studies recruiting in recent years — early years undercount.

Alzheimer's disease and other dementias are now treatable at a level that can modify the course of the illness. For the first time, disease-modifying antibodies have been approved that slow cognitive decline, joining older symptomatic drugs that ease symptoms but do not change the underlying progression. The overall trajectory has shifted from hopeless to cautiously active: research has accelerated, with more than 1,200 trials launched in the last five years, including 69 late-stage studies. The most important milestone is the approval of lecanemab, which directly targets the disease process rather than just its symptoms. While these advances are real, they are not a cure, and access remains uneven. Deaths from dementia have been rising in many countries as populations age, though improved care and earlier diagnosis are beginning to bend that curve in some regions. The direction is forward, but the finish line is still distant.

Can Alzheimer's be cured?

No cure exists yet. Current treatments can slow decline or ease symptoms, but they do not stop or reverse the disease. Research is actively pursuing prevention and more effective therapies, with hundreds of trials underway.

How fast does Alzheimer's progress?

Progression varies widely by person, typically spanning years from mild memory issues to severe disability. Disease-modifying drugs may slow the rate of decline, but the overall trajectory remains progressive without a cure.

What is the most important recent advance?

The approval of lecanemab, a disease-modifying antibody that slows cognitive decline by clearing amyloid plaques in the brain. It is the first therapy shown to change the disease course, not just symptoms.

Are new treatments widely available?

Availability is limited. These therapies require specialized infusion centers, regular monitoring, and are not universally covered by insurance or health systems. Access varies significantly by country and region.

Is research on Alzheimer's accelerating?

Yes. Over 1,200 trials have started in the last five years, including 69 phase-3 studies. This reflects a major push to find better treatments and eventually a prevention strategy.