The Flurizan study will evaluate the effectiveness of a new medication, Flurizan™ in slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Flurizan (tarenflurbil) is a compound that is derived from a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) called flurbiprofen.
The Flurizan Study is sponsored by Myriad Pharmaceuticals, Inc., located in Salt Lake City, UT.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is marked by progressive cognitive decline thought to be caused by an abnormal build-up of amyloid beta-42 (Aβ-42) in the brains of patients. The production, build-up, and deposition of Aβ-42 initiates a cascade of events leading to damage of the brain cells and the progression of AD. Currently approved treatments for AD do not influence this process whereas Flurizan has been shown in preliminary studies to reduce levels of Aβ-42. This study will determine whether Flurizan can slow the progression of AD.
Who is eligible to participate?
Participants in the Myriad Flurizan study must:
- Have mild AD.
- Be age 55 years or older.
- Be living in the community at the time of enrollment (i.e. not a rest home or nursing care facility).
- Have a reliable caregiver or relative who can accompany the participant to all clinic visits and answer questions about the participant. The caregiver must either live with the volunteer or see him/her at least 4 days per week.
What happens at the visits?
Study participants are asked to:
- Take the study medication (Flurizan) or placebo (inactive pill) daily for 18 months.
- Go to the study clinic for screening, monitoring, and testing for a total of 10 visits during this 20-month study.
- Participate in 12 telephone calls over the course of the study.
Eligible participants will be asked to undergo brief physical examination and tests of memory and concentration, and provide blood and urine samples.
Where is the study taking place?
Boston University Medical Center
How can I find out more?
This study is no longer open to enrollment. For more information on how to participate in other studies, please call Erin Whalen at 617-414-1078.
Key Personnel
- Robert C. Green, M.D., M.P.H. - Principal Investigator/Co-Site Director/Neurologist
- Alan Mandell, M.D. - Co-Site Director/Neurologist
- Jane Mwicigi, M.P.H. - Project Manager/Coordinator
The Flurizan Scientific Advisory Board
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