New Alzheimer’s drug slows cognitive decline by 35 per cent, hailed ‘remarkable’
An experimental Alzheimer’s drug has been hailed as ‘remarkable’ by experts.
The treatment greatly decreases cognitive and functional decline, despite some patients experiencing serious side effects.
In an analysis of nearly 1,200 people in the early stages of the disease, symptoms were slowed by 35 per cent over a period of 18 months when compared to placebo.
This was measured by a patient’s ability to carry out daily tasks like managing finances, driving, engaging in hobbies and conversing about current events.
However, side effects include temporary swelling in parts of the brain, which occurred in almost a quarter of the treated patients.
Microhemorrhages also occurred in 31 percent of patients.
Two participants’ deaths were attributed to the side effects, while a third might have also died from the treatment.
Regardless, the data has been widely praised by independent experts, who say the drug has the potential to significantly improve the lives of people suffering from the most common form of dementia.
