New Research Study

(NAPSA)—A new research study called VALID (VALproate In Dementia) is seeking 300 volunteers at 35 sites nationwideto test whether valproate treatment will slow progression of symptoms of the illness in people with early stage Alzheimer’s Disease. Previous research has suggested that valproate, an anticonvulsant drug, may be helpful by delaying the emergence of behavioral changes, such as agitation, as well as slowing the expected decline in intellectual functioning and daily functioning. The VALID research study is sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Dis- ease Cooperative Study based at the University of California, San Diego and funded by the U.S. Government’s National Institute on Aging, one of the National Institutes of Health. Study participants will be assigned at random to receive Valproate or placebo (inactive pill), and will be regularly monitored during the 26-month research study by physicians and qualified health care professionals who specialize in dementia. Researchers for this study are looking for participants who: Are age 55 to 90; Have been diagnosed with probable Alzheimer’s disease; Have not experienced agita- tion or psychosis since the onsetof AD; and Have a study partner—a friend or relative who can accompany the volunteer to all clinic visits and answer questions about him/her. If you would like more informa- tion or have family or friends who might be interested in participating in this research study, pleasecall the Alzheimer's Disease Education & Referral Center at 1-800-438-4380. ADCS researchclinics are located throughout the country.