AstraZeneca PLC’s (NYSE:AZN) Alzheimer's drug t is co-developing with Eli Lilly & Co (NYSE:LLY) has received fast-track designation from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The drug, AZD3293, is part of a new class of Alzheimer's drugs called BACE inhibitors which prevent the formation of amyloid.
A build-up of this substance in the brain is thought to be the main cause of the degenerative disease.
The FDA awards this fast-track status to drugs it deems to have the potential to fulfil an unmet need in a serious condition.
AstraZeneca will now have increased access to officials at the agency while developing the drug, minimizing delays.
Alongside Eli Lilly, the group plans to start testing the drug in patients with mild Alzheimer's in a separate trial.
BACE inhibitors are the latest glimmer of hope for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. But the field has been plagued by failures.
In 2013, Eli Lilly scrapped a BACE inhibitor, LY2886721, over concerns it could affect liver function.