Alzheimer Therapeutics Program | Mass General Brigham

Why It Matters

The therapy provides early‑stage Alzheimer’s patients a disease‑modifying option that can postpone decline, reducing caregiver strain and informing future neuro‑degenerative treatment strategies.

Key Takeaways

• Early-stage Alzheimer patients may receive anti-amyloid infusions regularly
• Treatments aim to remove plaques, slowing cognitive decline
• Eligibility requires evaluation; not all patients respond positively
• Infusions administered every 2‑4 weeks for up to 18 months
• Multidisciplinary team offers 24/7 support for patients throughout therapy

Summary

The Mass General Brigham Alzheimer Therapeutics Program introduces anti‑amyloid infusion therapy for individuals diagnosed with early‑stage Alzheimer’s disease, positioning the health system at the forefront of disease‑modifying treatment options.

The program targets amyloid plaques—protein aggregates that disrupt neuronal communication—by administering monoclonal antibodies that clear existing plaques and prevent new formation. Clinical data indicate these drugs can modestly slow cognitive decline, though benefits vary and side‑effects such as infusion reactions remain possible.

Patients must undergo a comprehensive eligibility evaluation, after which infusions are delivered every two to four weeks for an initial 18‑month course, with extensions possible if response is favorable. A multidisciplinary team—including dementia specialists, neuroradiologists, nurses, and infusion‑center staff—provides round‑the‑clock support and coordinates care.

While not a cure, the therapy offers a tangible option to delay functional loss, easing caregiver burden and extending quality‑of‑life years. The program also underscores the broader shift toward precision neurology and may accelerate research toward more effective Alzheimer’s interventions.

Original Description

For patients with early stage Alzheimer’s disease, disease-modifying medications may help slow cognitive decline by removing the buildup of amyloid plaques. This treatment is available to Mass General Brigham patients through the Alzheimer Therapeutics Program.

Talk to your Mass General Brigham doctor to learn more, or visit https://www.massgeneral.org/neurology/treatments-and-services/alzheimer-therapeutic-program.

Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYrLjATd88gPwIKntCoR0WQ?sub_confirmation=1

About Mass General Brigham:

Mass General Brigham combines the strength of two world-class academic medical centers, five nationally ranked specialty hospitals, 11 community hospitals, and dozens of health centers. Our doctors and researchers accelerate medical breakthroughs and drive innovations in patient care. They are leaders in medical education, serving as Harvard Medical School faculty and training the next generation of physicians. Mass General Brigham’s mission is to deliver the best, affordable health care to patients everywhere. Together, we transform the health of our communities and beyond.

Visit Mass General Brigham: https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/

Find us on social:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MassGenBrigham

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/massgeneralbrigham/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MassGeneralBrigham/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-general-brigham/