Researchers are excited about the prospects for an immune-disorder drug that, at least in initial tests, halted the progression of Alzheimer’s disease for three years, according to USA Today.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/story/2012-07-16/alzheimers-treatment-gammagard/56270084/1
Scientists announced the results of their study involving Gammagard, which is manufactured by Baxter International, at last week’s Alzheimer’s Association International conference in Vancouver. The lead scientist on the study, Dr. Norman Relkin of Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City, spoke at a news conference at the gathering, according to USA Today.
Gammagard has Food and Drug Administration for use on immune disorders, and it is full of antibodies. It is produced using plasma from healthy donors, USA Today reported.
The study results that were discussed involved a small number of patients, but a larger trial is under way. The initial study only had 24 Alzheimer’s patients, but the bottom line was this: The four that received what was the considered the optimal dose of Gammagard, IV delivery if the drug twice a week for 36 months, showed no mental decline over a three-year period.
Rapid cognitive decline, within 12 to 18 months, is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s.
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