Obeticholic Acid for the Amelioration of Cognitive Symptoms

Background

The development of memory and thinking problems in people with Parkinson’s is common and has a profound effect on patients and carers. At present, there are little in the way of treatment options and no treatment that alters the progression of cognitive decline.

Methods

Taking part in this study involves attending 10 trial visits over 6 months. Some of these visits will be at hospital appointments (at the Campus for Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle) and some will be over the phone.

 Researchers at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals and Newcastle University are running a clinical trial to see whether a potential treatment used in other conditions improves cognitive and fatigue symptoms and whether it is safe and well tolerated in people with Parkinson’s.

Out of the 25 people we plan to take part in this trial, around 10 patients will receive a placebo “dummy” drug and around 15 patients will receive Obeticholic Acid. This is decided randomly, by a computer.

Outcomes

If the results from this small trial show that the treatment might be effective, it could lead to a larger clinical trial. If this study demonstrates some improvements in measurements, it will be a very exciting field of research where little treatment currently exists.