New Medicine for Alzheimer's Disease in Canada

May 4, 2026, 16:21
CanadaHealth

Introduction

Health Canada says doctors can now use a new medicine called donanemab. This medicine helps people with early Alzheimer's disease.

Main Body

This medicine cleans the brain. It helps the brain work better for a longer time. Some people only need the medicine for 6 to 18 months. The medicine is very expensive. It costs $47,250 every year. Many people cannot pay this money. Some people cannot use this medicine. It is only for adults. People with a specific gene cannot take it.

Conclusion

Donanemab is now legal in Canada. Now, the government must decide if they will pay for it.

Learning

The Power of "CAN" & "CANNOT"

In this text, we see a very important word for A2 students: Can. We use it to talk about what is possible or allowed.

How it works:

  • Positive: can + action
  • Negative: cannot (or can't) + action

Examples from the text:

  • Doctors can now use a new medicine → It is possible/allowed.
  • Many people cannot pay this money → It is impossible for them.
  • Some people cannot use this medicine → They are not allowed/able.

Quick Rule: Notice that we don't say "can to use" or "cans use." It is always just can + verb.

Vocabulary Learning

medicine (n.)
a drug used to treat sickness
Example:The doctor gave me medicine to feel better.
helps (v.)
to give assistance to
Example:She helps me with my homework.
brain (n.)
the organ that controls thinking
Example:The brain processes information.
work (v.)
to function or operate
Example:The machine works well.
better (adj.)
of higher quality or more favorable
Example:This solution is better than before.
expensive (adj.)
costing a lot of money
Example:That watch is expensive.
pay (v.)
to give money in return for something
Example:I pay my rent every month.
government (n.)
the group that runs a country
Example:The government made new rules.
decide (v.)
to choose or make a decision
Example:I will decide later.
adult (n.)
a fully grown person
Example:Adults have more responsibilities.