Potential new Alzheimer’s drug presented at major clinical trial conference
Oral Presentation at CTAD19
Today (Thursday 5 December) the pharmaceutical company, Biogen presented further analysis from two phase III trials of the potential new Alzheimer’s drug, aducanumab. Results were presented at the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) conference in San Diego.
Dr Carol Routledge
Dr Carol Routledge, Director of Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK said:
“Since Biogen announced unexpected positive results from two phase III clinical trials of aducanumab, the field has been waiting to see more detailed data. The positive news is that, given the long wait for a disease-modifying drug for Alzheimer’s, aducanumab shows a clear effect on key hallmarks of the disease. The additional data provides an explanation for why the two phase III trials may have showed such different top-line results, suggesting people benefitted more when on a higher dose for a longer period of time.
“Regulators now have a critical decision to make - are the benefits seen in these two 18-month-long trials large enough to make a meaningful difference to the lives of people with dementia? That decision will ultimately determine who may get access to aducanumab, and other drugs like it, in future and under what restrictions. We are now in unchartered territory for an Alzheimer’s drug, and there will be huge anticipation around how the FDA decides to proceed.
“Studies like these add hugely to our understanding of diseases like Alzheimer’s and the best approach to treat them. Dementia research is making strides and gaining momentum. It’s testament to the commitment of scientists, funders and those who take part in trials like this that we’re moving closer to the first life-changing treatment for Alzheimer’s.”
Ends
For further information, or to speak to Dr Carol Routledge please contact Ed Pinches, Science Communication Officer on 0300 111 5 666, or email press@alzheimersresearchuk.org
Notes to editors:
· TOPLINE RESULTS FROM PHASE 3 ADUCANUMAB STUDIES was presented by Biogen at the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD19) conference in San Diego on Thursday 5/12/19
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