Discontinuation of iv bapineuzumab places solanezumab under scrutiny

Having failed to meet its co-primary endpoints in the second of four Phase III trials, development of iv bapineuzumab in Alzheimer's disease has been abandoned. Discontinuation of this eagerly anticipated candidate will reignite debate surrounding the appropriateness of targeting beta amyloid in cases where plaques are already present, and shine the spotlight firmly on Lilly's solanezumab, says Datamonitor's Charlotte Mackey.

The decision by Pfizer, Janssen and Elan to discontinue development of bapineuzumab intravenous (IV) in mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease was based on co-primary clinical endpoints not being met in...