Parkinson's Drug Candidate Showed Promise in Phase Ib Trial
Patients with advanced Parkinson's experienced more 'ON' time and reduced levodopa requirements in an early study.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Alzheimer’s
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Lundbeck reported results from a Phase Ib trial of the investigational drug Lu AF28996 for advanced Parkinson's disease. The study followed 34 participants, marking an early step in evaluating the treatment for those managing complex symptom fluctuations.
Why it matters
This research explores whether a new approach can extend the periods when Parkinson's symptoms are well-controlled while reducing the need for high-dose levodopa. It addresses the ongoing challenge of managing both motor symptoms and medication-induced involuntary movements.
In an open-label study of 34 patients, the drug demonstrated improvements in Good ON-time and a reduction in levodopa use. Participants showed an 8.5-point decrease in the Unified Dyskinesia Rating Scale score at Week 6, rising to 14.5 points by the end of the extension.
The players
H. Lundbeck A/S
A pharmaceutical company based in Valby, Denmark, focused on developing treatments for brain diseases including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
The details
Lu AF28996 was administered twice daily to observe its impact on motor control and the necessity for supplemental levodopa therapy. The drug aims to modulate specific pathways to stabilize patients who experience significant OFF-time, where symptoms return between doses. Larger investigations, such as the Phase II DARE2 trial, are now underway to rigorously test these effects against a placebo in 150 adults.
Timeline
Week 6: Assessment of Good ON-time and dyskinesia scale score.
Week 18: End of optional trial extension and final assessment.
October 6, 2026: Presentation of results at MDS 2026.
Week 19: Primary endpoint assessment for DARE2 trial.
Health Landscape
This development follows the research parameters set by the DARE2 clinical trial. It reflects ongoing efforts to improve treatment stability for patients who have reached advanced stages of Parkinson's disease where standard levodopa therapy often becomes less consistent.
Patients with advanced Parkinson's disease should discuss current symptom fluctuations and levodopa management with their neurologist. As clinical research progresses, updates regarding efficacy and safety for the patient population can be tracked through official registries.
The takeaway
This preliminary study suggests that Lu AF28996 may help reduce OFF-time and dyskinesia in patients with advanced Parkinson's. If you are currently managing fluctuating motor symptoms, consider tracking your daily 'ON' and 'OFF' hours to facilitate more productive discussions with your doctor.
Further reading
For broader context on neurodegenerative disease research, visit the Alzheimer’s section.
More information
Find ongoing study updates at clinical trial information and site locations.
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Do you believe recent clinical advancements in Parkinson's research significantly improve quality of life for patients?
