Aducanumab Alternatives: Better Paths for Alzheimer’s Care

Not thrilled with the idea of aducanumab for Alzheimer’s? You’re not alone. A lot of folks, caregivers, and even doctors have doubts — the price, the unclear long-term benefits, and those safety warnings give pause. So, what’s out there that might work better or fit a different need?

If you’re looking for alternatives, it’s not just about chasing the next brand-name drug. Let’s talk about what’s proven, what’s up-and-coming, and what real people are actually using.

First, you’ve got the tried-and-true medications: donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), and galantamine (Razadyne). These aren’t miracle cures, but they do help with memory and daily functions for some people. Memantine (Namenda) is another player, often used in moderate to severe Alzheimer’s. Doctors sometimes combine memantine and a cholinesterase inhibitor to boost the effects — it’s not a one-size-fits-all, but it can make a daily difference.

Want something newer? Lecanemab is getting attention. Like aducanumab, it goes after amyloid protein in the brain, which is believed to play a role in Alzheimer’s. Early studies say it may slow down cognitive decline, but it comes with its own risks and is still pretty new on the scene. Not every clinic or insurance will cover it yet either.

Worried about side effects? That’s a real concern. With drugs like aducanumab or lecanemab, there’s risk of swelling or bleeding in the brain, known as ARIA. More traditional meds like donepezil have their own stuff — nausea, bradycardia, sleep issues — but doctors know them inside and out, so side effects are easier to manage.

Some families also try non-drug approaches. That might mean cognitive therapy, lifestyle changes like a Mediterranean diet, or exercise routines. These don’t replace medicine, but they do add up and, according to some small but promising studies, might slow down the march of symptoms or boost quality of life.

Wondering about supplements and online promises? Be careful. There are plenty of products that market themselves as brain boosters but aren’t backed by solid clinical trials. B12, vitamin D, and folate can help in deficiency, but nothing on the supplement aisle currently rivals prescription meds for Alzheimer’s.

Cost is a big driver for many families. Aducanumab and the newer drugs can cost tens of thousands a year if insurance won’t pitch in, which pushes many to stick with the older, generic options. That’s not ideal, but it’s reality for a lot of people.

The bottom line: There’s no magic bullet for Alzheimer’s yet. But if aducanumab feels too risky or far-fetched, you’ve got options — both classic and new. Work with a doctor who actually knows your situation, watch out for side effects, and don’t underestimate how much support from family and community can help.