Austria and Germany Launch Biogen's Alzheimer's Treatment; Biogen's Therapeutic Products Overview

Biogen and Eisai have launched their Alzheimer's disease treatment in Austria, with Germany to follow. Biogen is a leading biotechnology company with a portfolio of therapeutic products, including treatments for multiple sclerosis, chronic psoriasis, and cancers. The company generates most of its revenue from medicine sales, with royalties and other sources making up smaller percentages.

Biogen Inc. and Eisai Co., Ltd. have announced the launch of LEQEMBI®, a new treatment for early Alzheimer's disease, in Austria on August 25, 2025, with Germany set to follow on September 1, 2025 [1]. This marks a significant milestone in the fight against Alzheimer's disease, as LEQEMBI is the first therapy in Europe to target the underlying causes of the condition.

LEQEMBI, an anti-amyloid beta monoclonal antibody, received European Commission (EC) approval in April 2025. It is indicated for adult patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease who are not carriers of the ApoE ε4 gene [1]. The drug has demonstrated a 31% reduction in clinical decline compared to placebo over 18 months in clinical trials [1].

The launch in Austria and Germany is part of a broader strategy to increase access to new therapies for early Alzheimer's disease in Europe. Eisai serves as the lead for LEQEMBI’s development and regulatory submissions globally, with both Eisai and Biogen co-commercializing and co-promoting the product [1].

Biogen, a leading biotechnology company, has a diverse portfolio of therapeutic products, including treatments for multiple sclerosis, chronic psoriasis, and various cancers. The company generates most of its revenue from medicine sales, with royalties and other sources making up smaller percentages [2].

The launch of LEQEMBI in Europe comes with potential safety concerns, including infusion-related reactions, ARIA-H, and ARIA-E, which could affect patient acceptance and medical professional recommendations [1]. Additionally, the requirement for a controlled access program may hinder broader patient access and complicate the therapeutic landscape for healthcare providers [1].

The stock performance of Biogen has shown mixed signals in recent months. Members of Congress have traded $BIIB stock 3 times in the past 6 months, with 2 purchases and 1 sale. Insiders have also traded $BIIB stock on the open market, with 1 purchase and 3 sales [2]. Analyst ratings have been predominantly positive, with 7 firms issuing buy ratings and no firms issuing sell ratings [2].

The launch of LEQEMBI in Europe represents a significant step forward in the treatment of early Alzheimer's disease. However, the drug's success will depend on its ability to navigate potential safety concerns and access challenges.

References:
[1] https://www.quiverquant.com/news/Eisai+and+Biogen+Launch+LEQEMBI%C2%AE+in+Austria+and+Germany+as+First+Alzheimer%E2%80%99s+Disease+Therapy+Approved+in+Europe+Targeting+Amyloid+Beta
[2] https://www.quiverquant.com/news/Biogen+and+Eisai+Launch+Alzheimer%27s+Disease+Treatment+in+Europe