Bapineuzumab shows Alzheimer's promise

MADISON, N.J., June 19 (UPI) -- Elan Corp. and Wyeth said a U.S. clinical trial of the drug bapineuzumab suggest the drug can help patients with Alzheimer's disease.

In the 18-month Phase 2 trial, bapineuzumab appeared to have clinical activity in treating Alzheimer's, Elan said Tuesday in a news release. The study assessed the safety of bapineuzumab, as well as impact of treatment on cognitive and functional endpoints, biomarkers and blood serum levels.

Bapineuzumab is designed to clear toxic beta amyloid from the brain, the company said.