Summary:
Are you concerned about memory loss?
If you have noticed recent memory changes, you may be interested in learning more about the APECS clinical research study for a very early stage of Alzheimer’s disease called prodromal Alzheimer’s disease.
What is the purpose of the APECS study?
The APECS study (β Amyloid Production and Effects on Cognition Study) is evaluating an oral investigational medication to see if it may help slow down the progression of what could be very early Alzheimer’s disease.
What is the investigational medication?
The investigational medication is called MK-8931. It is a once-daily pill taken orally.
MK-8931 is being evaluated in the APECS study to see if it has any effect in prodromal Alzheimer’s disease. MK-8931 helps reduce the levels of a small piece of protein called A-beta, which may be involved in causing Alzheimer’s disease. MK-8931 is considered investigational because it is not approved by health authorities, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Who can participate?
You may be eligible to join the APECS study if you:
- Are 50 to 85 years old
- Have had worsening memory problems for at least one year
- Have someone in your life who can attend study visits, answer questions about you, and help you follow study requirements
There are other eligibility criteria that you must meet in order to participate. The study staff can discuss these criteria with you in greater detail.
What will you be asked to do?
If you decide to participate in the APECS study, you will visit the study site about 12 times over a two year period. You will also need to be available for 8 phone calls from study staff.
If you qualify for and decide to participate in the APECS clinical research study, you will also be required to:
- Take your study medication once daily
- Bring your unused study medication and any empty blister packs to each study visit
- Perform self-exams of your skin and report any changes in your skin color to the study doctor
- Carry your patient identification card with you all the time and show it whenever you consult a health professional
- Provide urine and blood samples
- Have scans of your brain
- Follow all directions from the study staff
What are the potential risks and benefits?
Everyone who participates in a clinical research study must first complete a screening visit. During the screening visit, the study doctor will explain to you the study details and the potential risks and benefits of participation in the study.
Results of clinical research studies may help researchers learn more about the disease being studied and can help in the development of future investigational medications for that disease.
Study participation is voluntary. If you choose to participate, you may leave the study at any time for any reason. The study doctor and staff will be available to help you throughout the study and to address any questions you may have.