A new clinical trial offering hope to people living with Alzheimer’s disease and their families has opened in Scotland.

A woman is talking to a male nurse. They are sitting at a table opposite each other

The research aims to address one of the most challenging and least treated aspects of the condition: the changes in behaviour that can leave individuals feeling unsettled, anxious or agitated.

We are now recruiting at Scottish Brain Sciences research hubs in Aberdeen and Edinburgh. The first participant in Europe was screened earlier this month at the Aberdeen BioHub site, signalling strong demand for research into behavioural symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease—an area long recognised by clinicians and charities as underserved.

About the study
Many people with Alzheimer’s experience periods of heightened restlessness or emotional discomfort as the condition progresses. These moments can be deeply upsetting for the individual, and they often signal that the person is struggling to communicate an unmet need or feeling overwhelmed by their environment. Families frequently describe this as one of the most difficult parts of the journey, yet treatment options remain extremely limited.

The new SERENADA study will investigate whether a new investigational medication can help ease these symptoms and improve wellbeing for both patients and caregivers.

It focuses on finding safer, more effective ways to support people who experience these symptoms, which can make daily life harder for those living with Alzheimer’s and for their families and carers.
Participants will be supported closely by a clinical research team, with caregivers playing a key role in observing changes and offering insight into the person’s experience.

Professor Craig Ritchie, a leading dementia specialist and CEO of Scottish Brain Sciences, said: “Families tell us that these behavioural changes can be among the most challenging and heartbreaking aspects of Alzheimer’s. They often reflect distress that the person themselves may not be able to express”.

“There is a clear need for better, more effective ways to support people through these moments.  We are proud to be contributing to global efforts to improve care and quality of life for people living with Alzheimer’s disease, and this study is an important step toward that goal.”
The SERENADA study, developed by Exciva GmbH, will assess the safety and efficacy of the investigational medication. Participants will attend clinic visits over approximately 14 weeks, including screening, treatment and follow-up.

Recruitment is now open at Scottish Brain Sciences’ research clinics in Aberdeen and Edinburgh, currently the only UK sites involved in the global study.

Families or individuals experiencing these symptoms linked to Alzheimer’s disease who wish to learn more about taking part in research can visit the Scottish Brain Sciences website or contact the team directly.

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