In Alzheimer’s disease, a protein called amyloid accumulates in the brain. This accumulation is believed to be one of the key underlying mechanisms of the disease. Over time, amyloid leads to a decline in neuronal function and the degeneration of brain tissue. Today, antibody treatments are available that enhance the clearance of amyloid from the brain.
The European and Finnish medicines authorities have approved two such medicinal products for use: Leqembi and Kisunla. Based on studies, they can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by approximately one-third. The medicines are administered as an intravenous infusion. Leqembi is administered every two weeks and Kisunla every four weeks.
Revised 9/28/2026
Published 10/2/2026
Starting anti-amyloid treatment requires an accurate diagnosis. The assessment of treatment suitability begins at a geriatrician's appointment, where possible follow-up examinations are agreed upon.
At Mehiläinen, either a cerebrospinal fluid examination or an amyloid PET scan is always performed. These examinations can reliably demonstrate the accumulation of amyloid in the brain. The preliminary assessment can be supported by a blood sample.
The ApoE gene affects the risk of Alzheimer's disease. If the ApoE ε4 form is inherited from both parents, the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease is increased. Likewise, the risk of adverse effects from the newest medications is higher in this case. For this reason, the European Medicines Agency requires testing of the ApoE gene in all patients before starting treatment. If ApoE ε4 is inherited from both parents, treatment cannot be started.
The safety guidelines for new medications also require a recent brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This ensures that there are no changes in the brain that could increase the risk of treatment-related adverse effects.
When assessing the suitability of anti-amyloid treatments, it must be ensured that the patient does not have:
If the diagnosis of Alzheimer's is confirmed, no exclusion criteria appear, and treatment can be recommended overall, progression to chemotherapy can take place.
The initial assessment can be performed at any Mehiläinen location. The amyloid PET scan is performed at Docrates Mehiläinen's location in Helsinki. Treatments are offered in Helsinki at Docrates Mehiläinen and in Turku at the NEO location.
During treatment, the health status is monitored closely. Checks by the memory nurse are four times a year. Chemotherapy requires MRI follow-up depending on the situation either four or five times during the first year.
The costs consist of the costs of infusion therapy and the costs of the medicinal product. The prices of medicinal products are determined by the pharmaceutical manufacturers.
The price of infusion treatment is EUR 990 per month for a patient living in Finland. The first four months are paid in advance, after which payment is made monthly. The infusion price includes administration of the medication, MRI follow-up and memory nurse check-ups. The price does not include the medicinal substance or physician check-ups.
The price of Leqembi per year is (for a person weighing 70 kg) approximately 31,500 euros. Treatment with Leqembi is administered until further notice. The price of Kisunla per year is approximately 36,800 euros. The prices are determined by the pharmaceutical manufacturers.
The duration of the Kisunla treatment period is a maximum of 1 year and 6 months. This can be shortened to one year if amyloid clearance can be demonstrated on an amyloid PET scan. Doctor's follow-up appointments are charged separately. The need for these varies depending on the patient's situation, but there are often 1–3 during the first year.
For foreign patients, anti-amyloid treatments are tailored individually, with the price determined according to the treatment plan.
If you suspect Alzheimer's disease or want to discuss anti-amyloid treatments, book an appointment with a memory specialist at Mehiläinen. Our specialists will help you assess your situation and plan the best possible treatment path.