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The landscape of Alzheimer’s treatment is changing, and fast. With the recent FDA approval of Kisunla™ (donanemab), patients now have a new option to potentially slow disease progression in its earliest stages.1 This approval represents a major milestone in the fight against Alzheimer’s, signaling a shift toward more targeted and disease-modifying therapies rather than symptom management alone.
At IDYLLIC Infusion Treatment Center, we’re proud to offer Kisunla™ infusions. If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s, understanding how Kisunla™ works and whether it might be right for you is the first step toward taking control of your brain health.
What Is Kisunla™ (donanemab)?
Kisunla™, developed by Eli Lilly and Company, is an amyloid-targeting therapy (ATT) designed to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s by targeting amyloid plaques.2 These sticky protein buildups disrupt communication between brain cells and are a key driver of cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s.3
Kisunla™ works by binding to existing amyloid plaques and marking them for removal by the immune system.4 Unlike previous treatments, which focused solely on symptoms, this therapy takes a more proactive approach by helping to reduce the amount of plaque buildup in the brain and potentially delaying cognitive decline.
What Is the Difference Between Kisunla™ (donanemab) and Leqembi® (lecanemab)?
While both Kisunla™ and Leqembi® are monoclonal antibodies that target amyloid-beta plaques, there are key differences in their design and dosing schedules. Leqembi® requires ongoing infusions every two weeks, while Kisunla™ is designed as a limited-duration treatment, often completed in about 12 months depending on patient response.5,6
Additionally, Kisunla™ specifically targets a modified form of amyloid known as N3pG, which is thought to be more toxic to brain cells.4 This difference may influence how quickly plaques are cleared and how long the treatment effect may last. Both drugs represent the new wave of anti-amyloid therapy, but Kisunla’s may be the preferred Alzheimer’s infusion treatment for certain patients.
How Effective Is Kisunla™?
In clinical trials, Kisunla™ slowed cognitive and functional decline by approximately 35% in people with early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease. The most significant benefits were seen in individuals with medium levels of tau protein, a marker of disease progression.7
Additionally, patients receiving Kisunla™ experienced 40% less decline in daily functioning, including activities like managing finances, driving, and participating in social activities. Some participants even completed treatment within 12 months, once their amyloid levels were low enough, which could mean fewer infusions and a shorter treatment duration compared to alternatives.
Who Is Eligible for Kisunla™ Treatment?
Kisunla™ isn’t right for everyone, but it may be a good fit for those who meet the following criteria:
- Diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Disease: The drug is indicated only for individuals in the earliest symptomatic stages of the disease. Advanced cases are not currently eligible.8
- Presence of Confirmed Amyloid Plaques: Diagnosis must be supported by amyloid PET imaging or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showing the buildup of amyloid-beta.8
- Low to Medium Tau Levels: Tau PET imaging may be used to assess disease stage. Those with high tau levels tend to show less benefit from the drug.7
- No History of Certain Brain Abnormalities: Patients with a history of intracerebral hemorrhage, better known as rain bleeding, or amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) may be at increased risk of side effects and are typically excluded.2
Safety & Side Effects for Kisunla™
As with any infusion therapy, Kisunla™ carries some risks. Common and serious side effects include:
- Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities (ARIA): This includes ARIA-E (brain swelling) and ARIA-H (microhemorrhages or bleeding). Most cases are asymptomatic and discovered during routine MRI scans, but some may cause headache, dizziness, or confusion.9 Patients will undergo periodic MRIs to check for any brain swelling or bleeding, especially during the first several months of treatment.
- Infusion-Related Reactions: Patients may experience chills, nausea, rash, or shortness of breath during or shortly after infusion. These are generally mild and managed with pre-medication.9
- Headache and Dizziness: These are among the more common reported side effects but, tend to resolve quickly after infusion sessions.9
- Allergic Reactions: Rare, but serious allergic responses can occur and will be monitored closely at infusion centers like IDYLLIC.9
Why Choose Kisunla™ Infusion at IDYLLIC?
When it comes to Alzheimer’s care, not all infusion centers are created equal. At IDYLLIC Infusion Treatment Center, our team is deeply experienced in administering advanced infusion therapies with the attention, safety, and compassion every patient deserves. We’ve built our reputation on clinical excellence and heartfelt care, making us a trusted partner in the journey toward better health.
Patients receiving Kisunla™ at IDYLLIC benefit from a welcoming environment, experienced nursing staff, and close collaboration with their ARBDA rheumatologist and referring physician. We monitor every infusion with precision, provide pre-infusion education, and offer ongoing support throughout the course of treatment. With state-of-the-art facilities and a team that’s as compassionate as it is qualified, IDYLLIC is proud to be a local leader in Alzheimer’s infusion care.
Speak to a Specialist About Starting Kisunla™
If you or a loved one is considering Kisunla™, the first step is a conversation with your neurologist. They can help determine if you meet the necessary criteria and, if so, refer you to a treatment center like IDYLLIC for further evaluation and care.
At IDYLLIC, we’ll take the time to get to know you, review your history, coordinate needed scans (like amyloid PET or MRI), and build a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. We’re here to answer every question, walk you through the process, and support you every step of the way. Alzheimer’s may be complex, but accessing treatment shouldn’t be.
Take the First Step Toward Hope
Living with Alzheimer’s is daunting, but treatment breakthroughs like FDA-approved Kisunla™ offer a path forward. At IDYLLIC Infusion Treatment Center, we’re honored to walk this path with you by offering cutting-edge care, personal support, and a team that’s truly excited to help.
If you or someone you love is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and may benefit from Kisunla™ infusion therapy, we invite you to reach out. Schedule a consultation with our team today to learn more about your options, confirm your eligibility, and take one powerful step toward slowing the progression of this disease.
1https://www.fda.gov/drugs/news-events-human-drugs/fda-approves-treatment-adults-alzheimers-disease
2https://kisunla.lilly.com/hcp
3https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/amyloid-structure-linked-different-types-alzheimers-disease
5https://www.leqembihcp.com/treat-and-monitor/initiate-treatment
6https://kisunla.lilly.com/hcp/dosing-monitoring
8https://kisunla.lilly.com/hcp/appropriate-patients9https://kisunla.lilly.com/side-effects
