1738.1 – Investigations to support the use of PBS subsidised lecanemab in people with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease.

New Medicare Benefits Schedule item for codependent application (MSAC and Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee)

Lecanemab is a treatment that may help some patients with Alzheimer’s disease. 
Before starting lecanemab, people must be tested to see if they are suitable for treatment. This includes testing for a protein called ‘amyloid’ in the brain and testing their ApoE ε4 gene type. Only people who have a positive amyloid test and who do not carry ApoE ε4, or who carry only one copy, can receive lecanemab.
After treatment with lecanemab begins, people are checked for amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). These are temporary changes that can appear on MRI brain scans in some people taking lecanemab. MRI scans should be done before the 3rd, 5th, 7th and 14th lecanemab infusions, which are around months 1, 2, 3 and 6

People with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease slowly lose memory, thinking skills, and the ability to manage complex daily tasks. Early changes can include trouble learning new information, needing more time to find words, and difficulty planning or doing more than one task at a time. Most people can still live independently but may need reminders or help with tasks such as managing money or taking medicines.
Over time, thinking and daily functioning continue to worsen as brain damage progresses. Most people gradually develop moderate dementia, with greater loss of independence and daily functioning.

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The following consultation deadlines apply:

• Pre-PASC consultation deadline: Friday 10 July 2026 11:59pm AEST
• Pre-MSAC consultation deadline: To be confirmed

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This application will be considered at the following meetings:

• PASC meeting: 13 to 14 August 2026
• ESC meeting: To be confirmed
• MSAC meeting: To be confirmed

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The outcome of this application is pending.

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