Potential drug could benefit cognition in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s

The phase 2 trial involving 409 people found that people who took EVP-6124 for 23 weeks had statistically significant benefits on a range of measures of cognition. Results for other measures, including activities of daily living, were not significant.

The drug - an alpha-7 nicotinic agonist - amplifies the effects of acetylcholine, a brain chemical that is essential for normal brain and memory function. It uses a different mechanism to do this than existing treatments such as Aricept, Reminyl and Excelon.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'Although the evidence suggests this drug could have moderate benefits for some of the symptoms of Alzheimer's there is little to suggest it is any better than existing treatments. That said, after further development, it could prove to be a useful alternative for people who are intolerant to other options. It may also work well in combination.

'However, to say we are close to having a new treatment would be jumping the gun. More research is needed to see whether this drug has significant benefits not only for cognition but also for other symptoms in large groups of people.'

Prof Clive Ballard

Director of Research

Alzheimer's Society

- Ends -

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

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