Neal R. Cutler – författare

Contains essential facts and concepts spanning many of the important drug classes. Features an authoritative section on general methodology and regulatory issues. The molecular biology and pharmacology of key receptor types are considered along with the detailed pharmacodynamics of a wide range of therapeutic drug groups.

Covering the latest advances in CNS drug development, this book will guide all those involved in pre-clinical to early clinical trials. The authors describe how recent innovations can accelerate the development of novel CNS compounds, improve early detection of efficacy and toxicity signals, and increase the safety of later-stage clinical trials.

The current crisis in the drug development industry is critically reviewed, as well as the steps needed to correct the problems, including new government-backed regulations and industry-based innovations designed to accelerate CNS drug development in the future.

Animal-based models of major CNS disorders are described in detail, and the ability of the latest in vitro and computer-based models to simulate CNS disease states and predict drug efficacy and side-effects are examined. Particular attention is given to the growing use of biomarkers and how they can be used effectively in early human trials as signals of potential drug efficacy, as well as the increasingly important role of imaging studies to guide dose selection. Cognitive assessments that can be useful indicators of effect in patient populations are also discussed.

Written by a team of clinical scientists involved in CNS drug trials for over 20 years, and based on a wealth of drug development and clinical trial experience, Critical Pathways to Success in CNS Drug Developmentis full of practical advice for successfully designing and executing CNS drug trials, avoiding potential pitfalls, and complying with government regulations

Alzheimer''s disease has received growing attention in recent years because the affected population is growing quickly as life spans in America creep ever upward. As they near retirement, many Americans start to fear that any minor memory lapse—misplacing the keys or forgetting a name—might spell Alzheimer’s. In reality, such incidents are a normal part of the aging process. In Alzheimer’s disease, such incidents progress to a point at which they interfere with normal daily activities on a regular basis, and memory loss becomes progressively more disabling. This book is written for anyone interested in learning more about Alzheimer’s disease—people who have it, their families and caregivers, professionals who serve such people, teachers, and anyone with a general interest in the disease. An important feature of this book is a clear explanation of the basic biology of the disease. Here is information about who gets the disease, how it is diagnosed, and what happens to people who have it. A large section is devoted to the subject of caring for affected individuals, including legal and financial planning advice and pointers for finding outside support services. Existing treatments are discussed along with suggestions for handling many symptoms without drugs. Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease describes the most current knowledge of how and why it arises and gives information about the many avenues being explored in search of a cure. With its chapters on causes and on the search for treatments, this guide will be of interest to a wider section of the population than other books on the disease.