Promising Drug Shows Potential in Alzheimer's Brain Volume Study

Data from a small clinical trial showed that a GLP-1 receptor agonist drug for weight loss slowed brain volume loss in mild Alzheimer's disease patients. The study included 204 patients in Britain. Despite not meeting its primary endpoint, secondary measures suggested the drug reduced brain shrinkage affecting memory and decision-making regions.

Data from a small clinical trial published on Tuesday revealed that a drug from the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, originally intended for weight loss, slowed the loss of brain volume in patients with mild Alzheimer's disease.

Presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference, the trial provided new insights into potential treatments for hard-to-treat brain disorders. Conducted on 204 patients in Britain, the study divided participants into two groups, with one group receiving Novo Nordisk's older GLP-1 drug, liraglutide, and the other group receiving a placebo.

Although the trial did not meet its primary goal of changing the cerebral glucose metabolic rate—a measure of brain function—it did meet secondary endpoints. The results suggested that liraglutide reduced brain shrinkage by nearly 50% in areas related to memory and decision-making compared to the placebo. Rebecca Edelmeyer of the Alzheimer's Association called the findings 'really intriguing,' noting this was the first instance of such positive outcomes in a clinical trial for these interventions.

(With inputs from agencies.)