Starting a new Alzheimer’s treatment can raise a lot of questions, especially when it involves IV therapy. Understanding what happens before, during, and after your Leqembi infusion helps you or your loved one feel more confident and prepared.
At Smart Infusion, we provide expert-guided Leqembi infusion treatments in a calm, boutique setting. Our team specializes in delivering advanced IV therapy with clinical precision and a deeply personal approach. If you’re navigating early-stage Alzheimer’s, we’re here to walk beside you, offering support, comfort, and clarity at every step.
Let’s walk through what you can expect from the Leqembi infusion process, including how it works, what happens during treatment, and how to stay supported along the way.
Understanding the Role of Leqembi in Alzheimer’s Treatment
Leqembi (lecanemab) is part of a new generation of Alzheimer’s treatments that go beyond symptom relief and instead aim to address the disease at a biological level. Specifically approved for individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease—those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia—Leqembi is designed to intervene before significant brain damage occurs.
Unlike traditional Alzheimer’s medications that help manage memory or behavior temporarily, Leqembi works by targeting and reducing amyloid-beta plaques. These sticky protein deposits are believed to interfere with brain cell communication and play a key role in the progression of the disease.
By removing these plaques, Leqembi may help slow the decline in memory, thinking, and daily function, giving patients and families more time to adapt and preserve quality of life. Though it is not a cure, Leqembi represents a hopeful advancement in the ongoing effort to manage Alzheimer’s disease with greater precision and long-term impact.
What Happens During a Leqembi Infusion Session?
Starting Leqembi infusions can feel like a big step, but knowing what to expect can make the experience more reassuring. At Smart Infusion Therapy Services in Madison, your care is delivered in a relaxed, personalized setting where your comfort and safety come first.
Leqembi is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion every two weeks, under the supervision of experienced infusion professionals. Each session typically includes the following steps:
1. Check-In and Pre-Treatment Assessment
Upon arrival, a member of our clinical team will check your vital signs and briefly review your health status. This ensures that you’re feeling well and ready for treatment.
2. IV Setup
A nurse will gently place a small IV line into a vein in your arm. This allows the Leqembi medication to be delivered directly into your bloodstream in a controlled and consistent manner.
3. Infusion Process
The infusion itself takes about one hour. During this time, you’ll be seated comfortably in a private suite where you can relax, read, or listen to music. Our staff will monitor you closely throughout the session to ensure everything proceeds smoothly.
4. Post-Infusion Observation
After your infusion is complete, we may ask you to remain for a brief observation period, particularly during your first few visits. This allows us to monitor for any immediate side effects and provide support if needed.
Most patients find their infusion sessions peaceful and easy to tolerate, and many appreciate the opportunity to unwind during their visit.
Immediate Effects and When to Expect Benefits
Leqembi isn’t a quick fix, but it is a therapy designed for long-term impact. As a disease-modifying medication, its goal is to gradually reduce amyloid plaque buildup in the brain, which plays a major role in Alzheimer’s progression. Because this process happens over time, patience and consistency are key.
Here’s what most patients can expect:
In the Early Stages
During the first few infusions, noticeable changes are usually minimal. It’s common not to feel any immediate effects after a session, and that’s completely normal.
Over the First 3 to 6 Months
With steady, biweekly infusions, some individuals begin to experience a slowing in memory decline or more stability in daily cognitive function. For many, this period marks a shift where the progression of symptoms begins to feel less rapid.
After 6 Months and Beyond
For patients who respond well, longer-term benefits may include improved attention, greater mental clarity, or enhanced ability to manage daily tasks. These changes can be subtle but meaningful, allowing patients to maintain independence and quality of life longer.
Staying Comfortable and Informed During Leqembi Treatment
It’s important to remember that every person responds differently. Factors such as the stage of disease, overall health, and treatment consistency all influence outcomes. Most patients tolerate Leqembi infusions very well, and treatment sessions are typically smooth and uneventful. That said, as with any medication, it’s helpful to understand how your body might respond—especially early in your infusion journey.
Some individuals may experience mild, manageable side effects, such as:
- Headache
- Temporary flu-like sensations (e.g., chills, fatigue, or slight discomfort during infusion)
- Changes seen on brain imaging (ARIA), which are usually temporary and may include small areas of swelling or minor bleeding that rarely cause symptoms
At Smart Infusion, your safety and comfort come first. Here’s how we help you stay supported:
- Routine MRI Monitoring: We work closely with your neurologist to monitor your brain health throughout treatment, especially during the first few months when ARIA is most likely to appear.
- Clinical Oversight: Our experienced infusion team checks your vitals and well-being at every visit, ensuring any symptoms are promptly addressed.
- Personalized Care Plans: If you ever feel unwell or unsure, we’re just a phone call away, and we’re happy to guide you through any necessary next steps.
By staying informed, following your care plan, and attending regularly scheduled appointments, you can feel confident in your treatment and supported every step of the way.
How Side Effects Are Managed
At Smart Infusion, patient comfort and safety are always top priorities. While Leqembi is generally well tolerated, our team takes proactive steps to help you feel supported throughout your infusion journey:
- Scheduled MRI Monitoring: Regular brain imaging is part of your care plan to ensure early detection of amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). These MRIs are carefully timed, especially during the first few months, to help your provider monitor your progress safely.
- Consistent Symptom Check-ins: At every visit, our clinical team will ask how you’re feeling and check for any mild symptoms. This allows us to tailor your care and ensure you remain comfortable throughout treatment.
- Hydration and Rest Recommendations: Simple steps like drinking extra fluids and allowing time to rest after your infusion can help reduce fatigue, headaches, or other minor effects.
If any side effects occur, contact your provider immediately. Most infusion centers, such as My Smart Infusion, have protocols in place for managing adverse effects safely.
How Side Effects Are Managed
At Smart Infusion, patient comfort and safety are always top priorities. While Leqembi is generally well tolerated, our team takes proactive steps to help you feel supported throughout your infusion journey:
- Scheduled MRI Monitoring: Regular brain imaging is part of your care plan to ensure early detection of amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). These MRIs are carefully timed, especially during the first few months, to help your provider monitor your progress safely.
- Consistent Symptom Check-ins: At every visit, our clinical team will ask how you’re feeling and check for any mild symptoms. This allows us to tailor your care and ensure you remain comfortable throughout treatment.
- Hydration and Rest Recommendations: Simple steps like drinking extra fluids and allowing time to rest after your infusion can help reduce fatigue, headaches, or other minor effects.
If any side effects occur, contact your provider immediately. Most infusion centers, such as My Smart Infusion, have protocols in place for managing adverse effects safely.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery After Your Leqembi Infusion
After your Leqembi infusion, you can typically return to your regular routine without interruption. To ensure you feel your best and stay on track with treatment, here are a few thoughtful post-infusion tips:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help your body process the infusion more efficiently and ease any mild fatigue.
- Plan for Light Rest: While most patients feel fine afterward, some find it helpful to take it easy—especially following their first few sessions. A short rest or quiet afternoon can go a long way.
- Track How You Feel: Keeping a simple journal or using a phone app to log how you feel after each appointment helps both you and your care team monitor progress and identify patterns.
- Keep Your Appointments Consistent: Staying on a regular schedule is key to seeing long-term benefits. Use reminders or calendar alerts to make it easy to stay on track.
Support and Resources for Leqembi Patients
Living with Alzheimer’s is a team effort. Leqembi patients and their caregivers have access to a range of supportive services:
- Infusion Center Coordination: At Smart Infusion, our team helps streamline your care experience from scheduling and insurance questions to providing a calm, supportive environment for your infusions.
- Educational Resources: The official Leqembi website offers clear, up-to-date information on the medication, its safety profile, and helpful tips for caregivers.
- Alzheimer’s Association: Visit the Alzheimer’s Association to explore local support groups, free educational materials, and community programs.
- Caregiver Assistance: Many families benefit from online forums or counseling networks designed for caregivers. These platforms offer emotional support and practical advice for managing daily care.
You're not alone—these resources are here to help guide you every step of the way.
Explore a Calmer Way to Begin Leqembi Treatment
Leqembi offers a meaningful step forward for individuals navigating early Alzheimer’s, and knowing what to expect helps you start that journey with confidence. At Smart Infusion, we’re here to support you with skilled care in a setting designed for comfort and peace of mind.
To schedule your Leqembi infusion or learn more about our services, request an appointment online or call us at 608-690-7210.
