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Alzheimer’s Drug Trials Surge 11% in 2025 as NICE Reviews Lecanemab and Donanemab

The expanding pipeline features diverse targets—from repurposed diabetes therapies to late-stage prevention studies—building on earlier antibody breakthroughs.

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Amyloid and microglia cells in Alzheimer's disease.
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Overview

  • A 2025 review identified 182 Alzheimer’s clinical trials testing 138 candidate drugs, marking an 11% increase from last year.
  • One-third of studies repurpose existing medications originally approved for conditions such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis and high cholesterol.
  • Four late-stage trials focus on preventing Alzheimer’s onset rather than solely treating its symptoms.
  • Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, is under investigation for its potential to slow dementia progression.
  • NICE is assessing the cost-effectiveness of lecanemab and donanemab for NHS use, with a decision expected this summer.