Medically reviewed by Sarim Mir, MD, board-certified neurologist at Mir Neurology. Published July 2026.
For people living with early Alzheimer’s disease, one of the newer treatment options no longer requires a trip to an infusion center for every dose. An at-home, once-weekly injectable version of Leqembi (lecanemab) — given with an autoinjector — is now FDA-approved for maintenance treatment. Here’s what it is, who it may be for, and how to find out if it fits your situation.
What the at-home Leqembi option is
Leqembi (lecanemab) is an FDA-approved treatment for early Alzheimer’s disease — mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s. It was originally given as an intravenous (IV) infusion every two weeks at an infusion center. In 2025, the FDA approved a once-weekly subcutaneous (under-the-skin) autoinjector version, called LEQEMBI IQLIK, that can be given at home for maintenance dosing.
Maintenance dosing: what “at-home” currently means
Here’s the important detail. The at-home autoinjector is approved for maintenance dosing — meaning after a patient has completed the initial 18 months of IV treatment, they may switch to the weekly at-home injection instead of continuing infusions. A version approved as an at-home starting dose (from the very beginning of treatment) is still under FDA review as of mid-2026, so at this time the at-home option applies to maintenance, not initiation.
Why this matters for patients and families
For families managing Alzheimer’s, regular trips to an infusion center are a real burden — time, travel, and coordination. A once-weekly injection that can be given at home can ease that load for eligible patients on maintenance therapy, while keeping treatment on track. It’s a meaningful convenience, not a change in what the medication is meant to do.
Who might be a candidate?
Leqembi is intended for people with early Alzheimer’s disease confirmed through appropriate evaluation. Candidacy depends on your diagnosis, stage, medical history, and safety monitoring — the treatment carries risks that require careful screening and follow-up imaging. It isn’t right for everyone, and the decision should always be made with your neurologist. The first step is an accurate diagnosis, which begins with a cognitive assessment.
How to find out if it’s right for you
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s — or you’re noticing memory changes and want clarity — a neurology evaluation is the place to start. Our team can assess whether Leqembi is an appropriate option and explain what treatment and monitoring involve. Learn more about our Alzheimer’s disease care and broader memory and cognitive care. To schedule in Hagerstown or Cumberland, book an appointment or call (301) 797-7600.
Sources: Eisai/Biogen. “FDA Approves LEQEMBI IQLIK (lecanemab-irmb) Subcutaneous Injection for Maintenance Dosing,” August 29, 2025. “FDA Accepts LEQEMBI IQLIK Supplemental Biologics License Application as a Subcutaneous Starting Dose under Priority Review,” January 2026 (FDA action date extended to August 24, 2026). This article is for education and is not medical advice; treatment decisions should be made with your physician.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an at-home treatment for Alzheimer’s?
Yes. An FDA-approved once-weekly subcutaneous autoinjector version of Leqembi (lecanemab) can be given at home for maintenance dosing after the initial 18 months of IV treatment. An at-home starting-dose version is still under FDA review.
Who can take Leqembi?
Leqembi is for people with early Alzheimer’s disease (mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s) confirmed by evaluation. Candidacy and safety monitoring are decided with your neurologist.
Do I still need infusions?
Currently, treatment typically begins with IV infusions, and eligible patients may switch to the weekly at-home injection for maintenance after about 18 months. An at-home starting dose has not yet been approved.
How do I find out if I’m a candidate?
Start with a neurology evaluation and cognitive assessment. Your neurologist can confirm the diagnosis and discuss whether Leqembi is appropriate for you.
Need to talk to a neurologist about this?
Mir Neurology offers same-week appointments in Hagerstown & Cumberland, MD. No referral needed for most plans.
