Merck KGaA has launched a late-stage study of safinamide [1] for Parkinson's disease. The drug is designed to help improve motor function, but the study will also explore its affect on cognitive function and quality of life. Some 650 volunteers are being signed up to get two doses of the drug in combination with dopamine agonists in comparison to dopamine agonists alone. Merck gained a worldwide license to the therapy from Newron last year.
- see this release [2]
- here's the AFX report [3] on the trial
Related Articles:
More tests planned after Parkinson's drug fails trial. Report [1]
New approaches pursued on Parkinson's. Report [4]
Molecule could reverse Parkinson's. Report [5]
Links:
[1] http://www.fiercebiotech.com/story/new-tests-planned-after-parkinsons-drug-fails-trial/2007-08-22
[2] http://www.fiercebiotech.com/press-releases/press-release-merck-initiates-new-phase-iii-clinical-trial-safinamide-early-parkinson
[3] http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/newstex/AFX-0013-21278545.htm
[4] http://www.fiercebioresearcher.com/story/new-approaches-pursued-on-parkinson-s/2007-06-26
[5] http://www.fiercebioresearcher.com/story/molecule-could-reverse-parkinson-s/2007-07-17