Memory Walk may speed up Alzheimer's drug trial

A NEW drug could offer hope to the 12,000 people in Derbyshire who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Scottish scientists have developed a drug called Rember which, they say, could halt the mental decline and memory loss caused by the illness, which is currently incurable.

Derbyshire patients and local Alzheimer's campaigners have welcomed the news but say it could be another five years before the drug is on the market.

They want more money to be ploughed into research and trials for drugs like Rember and are urging everyone in the county to back the Alzheimer's Society fund-raising Memory Walk, in Derby's Markeaton Park, in September.

Gabrielle Lymbery, 72, cares for husband Ian, 76, who has Alzheimer's, at their home in Belper. The couple are taking part in the walk and were pleased to hear the news about Rember.

But, they said, by the time it goes on to the market, it could be too late to help Mr Lymbery.

Mrs Lymbery said: “Research into finding a cure for Alzheimer's is so under funded.

“I don't think people realise how devastating it can be unless they actually know someone with the disease.

“I think it's wonderful that scientists have developed Rember but it could be years before it is available.

“Hopefully, fund-raising events like the Memory Walk will help speed up the process.”

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, causing brain cells to die which results in memory loss, personality changes and progressive mental decline.

Trials with Rember at Aberdeen University found that in the 321 patients who took part in the study, 81% had a slower rate of deterioration and increased mental clarity.

The drug works by slowing the build-up of a specific protein in the brain that causes cell damage.

Larger trials with more patients are now needed before the drug can become widely available but scientists said it could be on the market by 2012.

Derbyshire Mental Health Services NHS Trust runs clinics and therapy sessions for Alzheimer's patients.

Tracey Shewan, from the trust, said: “This drug could be a really exciting breakthrough but, so far, it has only been trialled on a small group of people.

“Now we need to see larger trials to make sure it is as effective as the scientists think it could be, and with no nasty side-effects.”

The Derby Memory Walk takes place at Markeaton Park on Saturday, September 13, starting at 10.30am, and there are walks of varying lengths.

To take part, fill in the registration form on our website at www.thisisderby shire.co.uk/memory or call 07923 471181.

If you are thinking of taking part, or have experience of Alzheimer's disease and would like your story to be featured in the Evening Telegraph, contact Kelly Shorrock on Derby 291111, ext. 6415.