Experimental Alzheimer's Drug Shows Promise

By Alan Mozes
HealthDay Reporter
Friday, April 18, 2008; 4:00 AM

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THURSDAY, April 17 (HealthDay News) -- A new analysis of a study on an experimental Alzheimer's drug reinforces the notion that the compound is broadly effective at improving the cognitive function of mild to moderate Alzheimer's patients.

A second analysis of the trial on the medication, known as Dimebon, also reveals that by improving the Alzheimer's patients' ability to perform daily tasks, the drug shaves off almost an hour a day in the amount of time the average caregiver must attend to his or her patient.

The twin observations raise hope for a new and improved therapy to address both the symptoms and the underlying mechanisms driving a disease that the Alzheimer's Association says currently affects more than 5 million Americans.

"The broad context is that there are treatments available that treat Alzheimer's symptoms, but do not slow the disease down or prevent it," explained Steven H. Ferris, director of the Alzheimer's Disease Center at New York University. "So, we really need drugs that are more potent and safe and that actually slow the disease down."

"And this drug has that potential," he said. "It still needs more research -- which is going to happen. But, so far, it really looks like it might have a better effect than existing drugs and also a better side effect profile."

Ferris is expected to discuss the new research on Dimebon on Thursday at the American Academy of Neurology annual meeting, in Chicago.

He pointed out, however, that he played no role of any kind in the initial analysis of a recently completed yearlong study that had looked into the drug's prospects.

Ferris describes his current connection to the Dimebon study as that of a paid "external scientific advisory board" member to drug maker Medivation Inc., engaged in helping the company interpret the findings to date while moving forward with future study plans for its drug. He has no equity in the company.

The original study -- funded by the San Francisco-based Medivation Inc. -- had been conducted in Russia, under American guidance and supervision.