Biogen, Lilly potential Alzheimer's drugs given lukewarm review by drug evaluation group
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The Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER) has given a less than rosy assessment of the Alzheimer's therapies lecanemab from Biogen (NASDAQ:BIIB) and Eisai (OTCPK:ESALY), and Eli Lilly's (NYSE:LLY) donanemab.
In a draft report, ICER rated treatment with lecanemab "promising but inconclusive." Donanemab got an even lower rating of "inconclusive" as the organization said it needs to see phase 3 results to more fully understand the drug's health effects.

For cost-effectiveness, ICER said lecanemab would need to be priced $9K-$21K per year. For donamemab, the figure is $14.5K-$46.9K.
Aduhelm (aducanumab), Biogen (BIIB)/Eisai (OTCPK:ESALF) approved yet troubled Alzheimer's therapy, has a list price of $28.2K. However, it is only covered by Medicare for use in clinical trials.
The US FDA is set to act on lecanemab by Jan. 6, 2023. Phase 3 data for donanemab is scheduled for mid 2023.
Read why Seeking Alpha contributor Acutel views Lilly (LLY) as a hold.