Potential new Alzheimer’s treatment could prevent symptom decline for three years
Published 17 July 2012
A drug taken by people with immune deficiency could help stabilise symptoms in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s for three years according to research.
The study, which is being presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference, is a phase 2 clinical trial and found that people who took 0.4g/kg of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) every two weeks for 36 months had no decline on cognition, memory, daily functioning or mood. There were also no significant adverse side effects.
The initial 18 months of the trial involved 24 people taking a variety of different doses of the drugs. 16 people continued on for another 18 months at a set dose of 0.4g/kg.
A phase 3 trial of IVIG is currently underway.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
'This is probably the most exciting drug we know about that is currently in the late stages of research. We now know it is safe but the real test will be whether these initial promising results can be replicated in larger groups. If the phase 3 trials are successful, and it can be made cost effective, this drug could be on the shelves within 10 years.'
Professor Clive Ballard'One in three people over 65 will develop dementia. While finding a cure is the Holy Grail of dementia research, it is also vitally important that we continue to fund studies like this if we are to develop more treatments to help people to live well with the condition.'
Director of Research
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 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 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
