Recruiting

The purpose of this study is to attempt to slow the progression of the disease in individuals with Alzheimer's disease

The study is enrolling patients from across the country through six participating hospitals.
These are:

Akershus University Hospital, Oslo
Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen
St. Olav's University Hospital, Trondheim
Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger
Haugesund University Hospital, Haugesund
University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø

Dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in Norway, characterized by memory issues, language difficulties, and disorientation. Current medications for Alzheimer’s can slow disease progression but cannot stop or cure it. The FEAD study aims to bring us closer to such a treatment.
Fasudil, approved in Japan and China for treating subarachnoid hemorrhage, has shown good tolerance. Animal studies suggest fasudil slows Alzheimer’s progression and protects brain cells and synapses. Preliminary human studies also indicate positive effects on dementia progression. This is the first systematic study of fasudil for Alzheimer’s disease.

Prof. Dag Årsland

Principal Investigator

Professor Dag Aarsland is a globally recognized expert in dementia, particularly Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s disease, with significant contributions to geriatric psychiatry. He leads groundbreaking research in early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. His work spans from basic science to applied health, focusing on healthy brain aging and dementia.

Eligibility Requirements:

Participants must be over 50 years old and have mild cognitive impairment or early dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease. A study doctor will assess eligibility through examination and interviews. Requirements include good health and collaboration with a caregiver. Participants must speak Norwegian and be capable of providing informed consent.

Who can participate?

If you aren't sure if you meet the criteria above speak to your healthcare professional. Criteria may be updated but not reflected here, do not hesitate to contact the trial if you think are close to fitting criteria.

How does the study work?

Participation is voluntary, and your privacy will be safeguarded. You may withdraw from the study at any time without explanation. Participation does not affect your regular treatment or follow-up care.
Participation involves hospital visits to ensure eligibility. Participants will receive either the study drug (fasudil) or a placebo (inactive capsules), determined by randomization. Neither researchers nor participants will know who receives which, ensuring objective evaluation of the drug’s effects.
Participants will attend approximately 14 hospital visits (about once a month) over a 12-month study period. Tests and assessments will evaluate the drug’s efficacy and potential side effects.
Participation will incur no costs. Travel expenses may be reimbursed through patient travel services, as the study is approved by healthcare authorities and considered treatment.

Tests and Examinations:
The following will be part of the study:

Medical examination
Blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid tests
ECG (electrocardiogram)
PET scans of the brain
Memory and cognitive tests
Questionnaires for participants and caregivers about health and daily functioning

Get in touch today!

Interested participants will receive detailed information about the study with a doctor and/or nurse and have the opportunity to sign informed consent. They can respond by contacting the study nurse via phone or email.