The University of Arizona is recruiting people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease to be part of a national research study.
The university is one of 50 spots where the new clinical study will be conducted, on people who are already being treated with Aricept. The trial will evaluate a new neuroprotectant agent designed to protect against neuron loss.
Alzheimer’s develops when nerve cells in the brain lose their ability to function normally, causing problems with memory, behavior and thinking ability. Officials say the drug may be able to modify the pace of the disease.
Eligibility for the study is limited to men and women between 55 and 85, with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s and who have been on Aricept for at least six months. Participants cannot weigh more than 220 pounds and must have a partner or caregiver who can assist them and accompany them to study visits.
The Arizona Daily Star reports about 10 to 15 patients are needed at the University of Arizona, for about seven months.