Alzheimer’s drug fails to show effectiveness in a late-stage trial

Rebecca Aris

pharmaphorum

A drug developed by Pfizer, Johnson &amp, Johnson and Elan Corp. to treat Alzheimer’s failed to slow the disease in a late-stage trial, Pfizer announced late yesterday. Following the release of the news, shares for the three companies dropped. Interestingly, a slight drop in shares was seen for Pfizer and J&amp,J, down less than 1%, but Elan plunged 14%.

The Alzheimer's treatment (bapineuzumab) is one of three experimental Alzheimer's drugs undergoing late-stage patient tests. Approximately 35 million people worldwide have dementia, with Alzheimer's being the most common type. Given its prevalence, the three potential treatments are being closely watched by doctors, patients, investors and analysts.

“While we are disappointed in the topline results of Study 302, a more complete understanding of bapineuzumab and its potential utility in mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease will be gained following the availability of additional data, including data from the soon-to-be available non-carrier Study 301,”

Steven J. Romano, M.D., senior vice president, head, Medicines Development Group, Global Primary Care Business Unit, Pfizer Inc.

Pfizer said on Monday that it will continue to study its effect on a different group of patients.