Potential Alzheimer's treatment could be safe but only with low dosages

The Harvard and Brown University studies, presented at the International Conference of Alzheimer's Disease, followed 262 and 194 people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's respectively who had previously been given the drug bapineuzumab. The drug is currently being tested in clinical trials. The research found 30.8 per cent of people receiving high doses of the drug had serious side effects but this was reduced to 7.1 per cent when people were given a lower dose.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'With potential new therapies it is always important to weigh up the pros and cons. This latest evidence suggests that with the right dosage bapineuzumab could be relatively safe for people with dementia but we are still some way from knowing if it could be a viable Alzheimer's vaccine.

'Vaccine development is an important area for dementia research. If we can stop the symptoms before they affect day to day life, this could offer hope to millions of people.'

Dr Anne Corbett
Research Manager
Alzheimer's Society

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Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051 
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them 
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland 
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk 
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk

Press Office 0207 423 3595 Email: press@alzheimers.org.uk