Navigating a new era of disease-modifying therapy: experiences, treatment preferences, and unmet expectations of family caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients receiving lecanemab in China

Abstract Introduction As one of the newest disease-modifying therapies for early Alzheimer’s disease, lecanemab has attracted widespread research interest in various clinical settings around the world. However, there is currently insufficient understanding of patients’ and family caregivers’ real-world treatment experiences. Methods This study employed an exploratory qualitative research design and conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with family caregivers of patients with early AD who are currently receiving lecanemab treatment. Results Three themes emerged: (1) Experiences and Attitudes Toward Lecanemab Treatment; (2) The Multiple Practical Challenges of Treatment Costs, Informed Decision-Making, and Efficacy Assessment; (3) Strategies for Future Improvements. Discussion Given the current state of healthcare in China, families of Alzheimer’s patients still have high hopes for lecanemab treatment. Although some patients report that it has slowed the rate of cognitive decline, factors such as high costs and significant side effects make treatment decisions extremely complex. Impact These findings provide valuable real-world insights into the use of Lecanemab in Chinese Alzheimer’s patients, thereby informing and improving the design of future clinical studies. Reporting method This study adhered to the COREQ guideline. Public contributions No paper or public contribution. Clinical trial number not applicable.