Alzheimer's Society response to Stephen Ladyman's comments that NICE need to consider wider implications of withdrawing drugs for Alzheimer's

It provides information and education, support for carers, and quality day and home care. It funds medical and scientific research and campaigns for improved health and social services and greater public understanding of dementia.

The Alzheimer's Society provides a national help line on 0845 3000 336 and website http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/. Please include this information in any publication that uses these comments.

It's not over yet

'We welcome Stephen Ladyman's comments on NICE's draft guidance on drugs for Alzheimer's. The minister says that NICE should consider the wider implications of not approving the drugs' use, especially the benefits and costs to carers as well as patients.

We are worried that people with dementia and their carers believe that NICE has changed its mind already but this is premature. The consultation is still going ahead and we are encouraging anyone affected by NICE's guidance to contact them to tell them how important these drugs are.

We are glad that the minister has listened to people with dementia and their carers and hope that NICE will listen to us all when they issue their final guidance in October.

The Alzheimer's Society Parliamentary lobby on access to drug treatments and charging for care is still taking place on Wednesday 16 March 2005.'

Neil Hunt
Chief executive

For media enquiries, contact the Alzheimer's Society press office.