There Is Hope.
Science Is Working for You.
More researchers are working on Alzheimer's disease right now than at any point in history. Hundreds of clinical trials are actively enrolling — each one a step toward a treatment that could help you, your loved one, or future generations.
Every Participant Makes a Difference
No treatment for Alzheimer's disease has ever reached patients without the courage of clinical trial volunteers. The science is only as powerful as the people who make it possible.
Whether you or a loved one is living with Alzheimer's, have a family history of the disease, or want to contribute as a healthy volunteer — there may be a trial designed for someone exactly like you.
What Are Researchers Testing?
Alzheimer's trials span four major therapeutic categories. Understanding what each one targets helps you see the full scope of the scientific effort underway.
These are therapies made from living cells, such as monoclonal antibodies. They are engineered to target the core biology of Alzheimer's — like clearing amyloid plaques from the brain or stopping tau protein tangles from spreading. Many of the most exciting recent breakthroughs (including lecanemab and donanemab) are biologics. They are typically given by IV infusion.
These are traditional chemical drugs — small enough to be taken as a pill or capsule. They are designed to interfere with the biological processes that drive Alzheimer's disease, such as blocking enzymes that produce amyloid or preventing protein misfolding. Small molecules are often easier to produce at scale and can sometimes cross the blood-brain barrier more readily.
These treatments aim to sharpen memory, improve thinking speed, and help people with Alzheimer's maintain daily function for longer. Rather than targeting the underlying disease biology, they focus on boosting the brain's communication systems — much like a hearing aid helps someone with hearing loss, even if it doesn't fix the underlying cause.
Alzheimer's disease often comes with difficult behavioral and emotional symptoms — agitation, anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and hallucinations. NPS trials are testing treatments specifically for these symptoms, with the goal of improving quality of life for both patients and caregivers.
Understanding the Phases of a Clinical Trial
Before any treatment reaches patients, it must be rigorously tested in phases. Here is what each phase means.
The treatment is first tested in a small group to evaluate safety, understand how the body processes it, and find a safe dosage range.
Your role: Help researchers understand safety — every data point helps protect future patients.
A larger group receives the treatment to study whether it shows signs of working and to further evaluate safety.
Your role: Your participation directly shapes how the treatment is developed.
Large-scale trials confirm effectiveness, monitor long-term effects, and compare results against placebo. This is the final step before regulatory approval.
Your role: Phase 3 participants help bring treatments across the finish line toward patients worldwide.
Find a Trial Near You
Sites currently enrolling or opening soon. Enter a city name or use your location. Click any circle for trial details.
Ready to take the next step? Click any circle on the map to view trial details and contact information. Want to explore further? Look at all the trials to learn more about the latest Alzheimer's research here. Always speak with your doctor before enrolling in any clinical trial.
Resources & Support
The official US registry of all clinical studies. Search by condition, location, or keyword.
Guides and support for patients and families considering clinical trial participation.
The UNLV research center behind this observatory, led by Dr. Jeffrey L. Cummings.