Leqembi (lecanemab-irmb) is a medication doctors prescribe for people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Original Medicare Part B covers the drug because you can receive it as an intravenous (IV) infusion.
Leqembi is expensive out of pocket, with costs cited as high as $26,500 per year. However, you don’t need to pay as much under Medicare.
Instead, you’ll pay a monthly premium of $185in 2025 and reach a deductible of $257 before Medicare provides coverage.
Afterward, it pays for 80% of the cost. So, once you meet your deductible, your out-of-pocket cost might be around $5,000.
When did Medicare start covering Leqembi?
Medicare has covered Leqembi since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved it in 2023.
To receive Medicare coverage for Leqembi, you must first qualify for Medicare and enroll in Medicare. You also need to receive a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer’s disease. In the latter, imaging showing beta-amyloid plaque on your brain must be available.
Also, your doctor needs to participate in a qualifying registry, which collects data on the drug’s effectiveness. Strong privacy and security measures can protect your data, but it’s accessible to researchers for further study.
Because $5,000 per year is still a hefty cost, you may look for additional ways to cover the out-of-pocket cost.
Financial support options may include the Eisai Patient Support program or savings cards from websites like Medicine Assistance Tool and NeedyMeds.
If you plan to take Leqembi long term, speak with your doctor about your cost support options.