Cost of Aricept to drop after patent protection expires

Donepezil, which can slow the symptoms of the disease in the early to moderate stages, had previously only been available under the brand name Aricept.  After the expiry of its patent, the generic version of the drug has now been released which carries the same chemical makeup. This is the second generic Alzheimer's treatment to be launched this month.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This is fantastic news for people with Alzheimer's and for the NHS. These treatments can be extremely helpful for people in the early to moderate stages of Alzheimer's disease. They can help people remember the names of their grandchildren, how to make a cup of tea, or the address of the house they have lived in for the past 30 years. However, currently only around 10 per cent of those people with Alzheimer's disease are being prescribed the right treatment.

'The fact that a low-cost version is now available will save the NHS millions of pounds and should give GPs the extra motivation to ensure people with dementia are offered the right prescription. Everyone with Alzheimer's disease should be given the opportunity to try these treatments.'

Jeremy Hughes
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society

- Ends -

Notes to editors:

• Treatments for Alzheimer's - Three drugs are available on NHS to people with Alzheimer's disease in the early and moderate stages. The drugs prevent the breakdown of a messenger called acetylcholine in the brain. This messenger helps nerve cells communicate and can temporarily improve or stabilise the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. The NHS in England spent just over £63 million on Aricept in 2010.
• For further information about the drugs please visit alzheimers.org.uk/factsheet/407
• For more information on the background of Alzheimer's Society's campaigning work around NICE guidance on Alzheimer's drugs, visit alzheimers.org.uk/accesstodrugs
• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk

Press Office 0207 423 3595 Email: press@alzheimers.org.uk