Dementia Australia welcomes the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) registration of Leqembi (lecanemab) for use in Australia.
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said the approval provided hope for people in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease.
"This, along with the approval of Kisunla by the TGA earlier this year and the many other treatments currently being developed, heralds a new and exciting era for the treatment of dementia," Professor Buchanan said.
"With dementia now the leading cause of death for Australians, we welcome any developments that can improve the lives of people living with dementia their families and carers.
"It is important to note that lecanemab does come with possible side effects that need to be carefully communicated to patients so they can make an informed choice, and the treatment needs to be monitored by health professionals.
"We also need to ensure people understand that lecanemab is not a cure and is only suitable for people in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease which is why it is so important for people to receive a timely diagnosis."
Dementia Australia Dementia Advocate Peter Duclos, who was recently diagnosed with younger onset Alzheimer's disease, said it was an exciting announcement.
"This is really positive news because it provides hope for people like me, who are living with dementia," Mr Duclos said.
Professor Buchanan emphasised the need for Australia's health systems to be ready for these drugs, which require substantial monitoring.
"As this and other treatments become available in Australia, we need to ensure that our health systems are ready and to make sure that access to treatment is equitable and available to everyone.
"If this news raises any questions or concerns for anyone about their memory or changes in cognition, please do contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year."
