Today…research and clinical trials…
Research on Alzheimer’s disease is slow because Alzheimer’s is a slow-moving disease. It takes time to see the result. Yet, in the last decade, substantial changes have taken place. Now, the question is how to use this information.
First, a little science talk.
Back in the 1990s, Aricept was the new drug for Alzheimer’s. Followed by Exelon, and Razadyne. These are cholinesterase inhibitors. Another drug is Namenda, which regulates glutamate and can work with cholinesterase inhibitors. Big words to say they help delay symptoms. They can clear confusion and improve memory. But also, these medications are not a cure and do not work for everyone.
The best candidates for these drugs? Patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or in the early stages of the disease. This emphasizes the importance of early detection and diagnosis. They give the gift of time. For those with late-stage Alzheimer’s, testing does not exist. The disease is too advanced.
What to do? Have honest, straightforward discussions with your doctor about the pros and cons of any drug. The interaction of drugs with other medications is critical to know. Be honest with your doctor. In turn, they should have information for you. So, ask questions until you understand the situation.
Clinical trials…
Since 2021, there has been a flurry of news about Alzheimer’s research and trials. These trials provide a better understanding of the disease. Like the evolution of television and telephones, knowledge about treatments for Alzheimer’s will improve. They’ll speed up, be more affordable, and reach more people. But it’s a slow process.
Volunteers are a critical part of this research. The most qualified candidates are those with early symptoms and a diagnosis. Noticing these early warning signs is essential. It’s true: the earlier, the better. Also, have long, honest conversations with the patient, their neurologists, and family. Clinical trials need informed volunteers. They’re not for everyone.
These new drugs attack amyloid plaque build-up in the brain. Amyloids naturally occur in the brain. The usual routine is to remove its waste, beta-amyloid, from the brain through blood vessels. What is not clear is why this beta-amyloid waste stays in the brain. It causes Amyloid plaque build-up between neurons. Which interferes with neuron connections, causing a decline in cognitive brain activity, possibly leading to Alzheimer’s.
These are engineered monoclonal antibody treatments, specifically designed to attack Amyloid plaques. They are different than Aricept and other early drugs because they show the ability to remove the Amyloid plaque from the brain. Yet, there are serious risks and side effects. That is the study. To remove those risks.
Aducanumab, brand named Aduhelm, was approved by the FDA in 2021, followed by much controversy. Its maker, Biogen, later discontinued it to explore other treatments for Alzheimer’s. One is Leqembi, approved in 2023. Eli Lilly’s Kisunla, was approved in 2024. Specific locations and procedures are being set up to administer these tests. Make no mistake, these are still clinical trial drugs. Phase four trials expand knowledge of the drug’s performance, safety, and long-term effectiveness. With more volunteers, scientists can identify and address side effects, quality of life, and cost-effectiveness.
This is basic information to consider if you want to volunteer for a clinical trial. Also, drugs are not involved in ALL clinical trials. There are trials specifically for caregivers. Here are a few references if there’s an interest in participating in clinical trials. These trials and others are supported by funding from NIH (National Institute of Health) and HHS (Health and Human Services).
https://www.caregiveraction.org/clinicaltrial
https://www.alzheimers.gov/clinical-trials/find-clinical-trials