In short
This article discusses the use of Flutafuranol (18F), also known as [18F]NAV4694, in clinical trials for early preclinical Alzheimer's disease. Flutafuranol (18F) is being studied as a diagnostic tool to measure brain amyloid levels in patients with intermediate or elevated amyloid, which may indicate early stages of Alzheimer's disease. The drug is administered as a solution for intravenous injection and is used in conjunction with positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to assess brain amyloid pathology.
At a glance
- Drug Name
- Flutafuranol (18F), also known as [18F]NAV4694
- Purpose
- Diagnostic tool for measuring brain amyloid levels in preclinical Alzheimer's disease
- Administration
- Intravenous injection, maximum dose of 8.1 mCi
- Target Population
- Adults aged 55-80 with intermediate or elevated brain amyloid levels
- Imaging Technique
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
- Primary Objectives
- Measure changes in brain amyloid levels and cognitive function over time
- Study Duration
- 216 weeks (approximately 4 years) with potential extension phase
What is FLUTAFURANOL (18F)?
FLUTAFURANOL (18F), also known as [18F]NAV4694, [18F]AZD4694, or Flutafuranol F 18, is a diagnostic tool used in medical imaging. It is not a treatment or cure for any disease, but rather a substance used to help doctors visualize certain aspects of a patient's brain during a special type of scan called a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan.
How Does FLUTAFURANOL (18F) Work?
FLUTAFURANOL (18F) is what's known as a radiotracer. When injected into the body, it travels to the brain and attaches to specific proteins called amyloid plaques. These plaques are associated with Alzheimer's disease. During a PET scan, the radiotracer allows doctors to see where these plaques are located and how much of them are present in the brain.
Medical Conditions FLUTAFURANOL (18F) is Used For
FLUTAFURANOL (18F) is primarily used in the diagnosis and study of Alzheimer's disease, particularly in its early stages. It's being investigated for use in two specific conditions:
- Early Preclinical Alzheimer's Disease with Intermediate Amyloid: This refers to a stage where a person doesn't yet show symptoms of Alzheimer's, but has a moderate amount of amyloid plaques in their brain.
- Preclinical Alzheimer's Disease with Elevated Amyloid: This is similar to the above, but with a higher level of amyloid plaques in the brain.
In both cases, the person doesn't yet show outward signs of memory loss or cognitive decline, but may be at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease in the future.
How is FLUTAFURANOL (18F) Administered?
FLUTAFURANOL (18F) is given as an intravenous injection, which means it's injected directly into a vein. The maximum dose used is 8.1 millicuries (mCi), a unit used to measure radioactivity. This injection is typically given just before a PET scan is performed.
Current Clinical Trials
FLUTAFURANOL (18F) is currently being used in a clinical trial called the AHEAD 3-45 Study. This study aims to investigate the effects of a potential Alzheimer's treatment called BAN2401 (lecanemab) in people who are at risk for Alzheimer's but don't yet show symptoms. FLUTAFURANOL (18F) is being used in this study to measure the levels of amyloid in participants' brains before and after treatment.
Safety Considerations
While FLUTAFURANOL (18F) is generally considered safe for diagnostic use, there are some important safety considerations:
- It should not be used in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- People with certain medical conditions, such as HIV, recent cancer, or bleeding disorders, may not be eligible to receive it.
- It's not suitable for people who have had recent strokes, seizures, or certain psychiatric conditions.
- People with certain implants or devices (like pacemakers) may not be able to undergo the PET scan that follows the injection.
As with any medical procedure, it's important to discuss all potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before undergoing a scan with FLUTAFURANOL (18F).