Researchers at Cognition Therapeutics have unveiled promising results for zervimesine, an experimental drug designed to address the complex symptoms of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). The phase 2 SHIMMER study, presented at the International Lewy Body Dementia Conference in Amsterdam, demonstrated substantial improvements across multiple patient symptom measures.
The double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 130 adults revealed significant benefits for patients receiving zervimesine. Participants showed an 86% improvement on neuropsychiatric symptom scales, including reduced hallucinations, delusions, anxiety, and agitation compared to the placebo group.
Most notably, patients treated with zervimesine preserved 52% more of their ability to perform daily activities and experienced 91% fewer cognitive fluctuations. The drug also helped patients maintain 62% better motor function, including improvements in gait, balance, and tremors.
DLB affects approximately 1.4 million people in the United States and is considered the costliest form of dementia. The disease is characterized by progressive neurological symptoms that can fluctuate in severity, making treatment challenging.
Dr. James E. Galvin, the study director, highlighted the potential significance of these results, noting that the improvements could enable DLB patients to remain at home with caregiver support, potentially reducing the need for residential care facilities.
While further research is needed, these initial findings suggest zervimesine could represent a meaningful advancement in managing the complex and debilitating symptoms associated with dementia with Lewy bodies.
