Clinical trial at Alfred Health to treat Alzheimer’s
A Victorian patient with Alzheimer's disease has become the first in the world to be given a new drug that experts hope will further treatment for the most common form of dementia.
Alfred Health was selected by the overseas drug company to lead a trial to evaluate the novel drug – giving Victorians exclusive access ahead of other research centres.Unlike current medications, Anavex is unique because it is designed to both relieve sufferers’ symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
Results of the trial could be known within a year and, if positive, will pave the way for a larger clinical trial. Director of Aged Psychiatry at Caulfield Hospital and study lead, Associate Professor Steve Macfarlane said there is need to find better treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.
"Existing drug treatments for Alzheimer’s target a patient’s symptoms, but don’t halt or cure the disease. New trials are focusing on being able to modify the disease’s progression," A/Prof Macfarlane said.
"This trial – Anavex 2-73 – is exciting because data from preclinical studies has indicated potential to both improve memory and slow the disease.
Caulfield Hospital was approached by the US-based developer of the drug because of the reputation of its clinical trials team, and is currently recruiting patients.
To be eligible for the study, patients should have early-stage Alzheimer’s and be on the cognitive enhancer, Aricept.
Questions about trial participation can be directed to Michael Kornhauser, Caulfield Hospital Age Psychiatry clinical trials coordinator, on (03) 9076 6110 or via email adclinicaltrials@cgmc.org.au.