Anti-Amyloid Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease
Leading-edge antibody treatments
Expert Treatments at the Alzheimer’s Clinic
The Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer’s Disease (DiAD) Clinic at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) is a leader in Alzheimer’s disease care. We were the first clinic in Massachusetts to offer lecanemab. Today, we provide both lecanemab and donanemab, two FDA-approved anti-amyloid treatments.
These breakthrough therapies offer new hope to patients and families by helping slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
Why Choose the BIDMC DiAD Clinic?
The BIDMC DiAD Clinic combines advanced treatment options with expert, compassionate care for patients and families facing Alzheimer’s disease.
- Pioneers in Alzheimer’s care: first in Massachusetts to offer anti-amyloid therapy
- Comprehensive expertise: cognitive neurologists, neuropsychiatrists, neuropsychologists, and clinical social workers
- Personalized treatment plans: tailored evaluations, safety monitoring, and supportive services
- Ongoing care: infusion therapy, regular MRIs, telehealth and in-person visits, and seamless coordination with your regular neurologist
About Anti-Amyloid Therapy
Anti-amyloid antibody therapies target one of the key causes of Alzheimer’s disease by reducing harmful protein buildup in the brain. Lecanemab and donanemab are antibody therapies that remove beta-amyloid, a protein that builds up in the brain and contributes to Alzheimer’s disease progression.
- Lecanemab and donanemab are not cures but can slow memory and functional decline by about 30% over 18 months.
- They are best suited for patients with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s dementia.
- Treatment schedules differ:
- Lecanemab: infusions every 2 weeks
- Donanemab: infusions every 4 weeks
Take the Next Step
If you or a loved one is experiencing memory changes, the DiAD Clinic at BIDMC offers unmatched expertise, proven therapies, and compassionate care.
Call 617-667-4074 or message your team via the patient portal to learn more.
More About Anti-Amyloid Therapy
Your journey will begin with a full evaluation—neurologic exam, memory testing, bloodwork, and imaging.
If eligible, you’ll work with your care team to start treatment, which will include:
- Infusion therapy: sessions last 1–3 hours depending on the medication
- Monitoring: routine MRIs and check-ins to track safety and progress
- Comprehensive support: telehealth visits, counseling, and coordination with your neurologist
While many patients tolerate treatment well, some side effects may occur, such as:
- Infusion reactions: fever, flu-like symptoms, rash, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Most are mild and manageable.
- Brain swelling or bleeding (ARIA): often detected only on MRI; occasionally causes headache, vision changes, or confusion. Rarely, more serious symptoms like seizures or stroke-like symptoms can occur.
Our team carefully monitors you at every step. Most side effects resolve on their own, and treatment can often continue after appropriate management.
Advancing Care, Research & Education
Department of Neurology
The Department of Neurology offers exceptional patient care, education opportunities and research programs.
Neurology Research
Our top-tier research programs and laboratories work to advance the knowledge and treatment of neurological disorders.
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Our team offers comprehensive education and training programs for healthcare professionals, including fellowships and residencies.
