Given in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, solanezumab delays the death of brain cells, according to research conducted by the manufacturer of this drug, informs the BBC website.
The results of the research were announced at the international conference of the Alzheimer’s Association in Washington (USA).
The drugs currently used to treat Alzheimer’s disease – for example, Aricept to inhibit the breakdown of acetylcholine – only keep the brain cells functioning. Solanezumab – an antibody against pathological proteins that builds up deposits in the brains of sick people – has long been considered a very promising drug for people with dementia. However, 18-month studies – with half of the patients taking solanezumab – were considered unsuccessful in 2012.
Only a thorough analysis of the results of the studies carried out by the manufacturer of the drug showed that solanezumab could be effective in the earliest stage of Alzheimer’s, slowing down its progress – it was about 1/3 slower in patients treated. Solanezumab stops pathological protein deposits (amyloid) and the death of nerve cells. Therefore, the deterioration of cognitive functions, usually observed after 18 months, did not occur until 24 months. Hence, approximately 1000 participants in previous studies were offered to take the drug for another two years. Those who took the drug from the beginning outperformed the rest who had been given solanezumab for only two years, and had previously been given a placebo.
The preliminary results were accepted by the specialists participating in the conference with moderate optimism – never before had it been possible to slow down the progress of the disease. However, experts compare the current results to the results of pre-election polls, which do not always have to be consistent with the election results. Or to the trailer, on the basis of which it is impossible to judge the whole movie with certainty.
Next year, the results of further studies conducted by the drug manufacturer are to be announced, which are to provide certainty about the effectiveness of solanezumab.
As there is currently no drug that slows the progression of dementia, even the limited effectiveness of solanezumab would change the treatment regimen. While the disease would continue to worsen, its mild phase would lengthen and no ongoing care is needed yet.
If the results are confirmed, I think it will be a real breakthrough in Alzheimer’s research, Dr Eric Karran of Alzheimer’s Research UK told the BBC. “Then, for the first time, the medical community will be able to say that we can slow down Alzheimer’s, which would be an incredible step forward.” These data require confirmation, they are not the final proof (…). We’ve never had evidence before that it is possible to influence the progression of the disease. “
According to the data of the British Alzheimer’s Society, currently around 44 million people worldwide suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. In 2050, according to forecasts, there will be 135 million patients.