Both trials missed their primary endpoints but contained suggestions of possible benefit.

FORBES: Controversial PFO Closure Trials Published In NEJM

While the primary endpoints of the two pivotal studies conducted were not met, a secondary analysis of the data demonstrated that a molecule acting specifically on amyloid-beta can slow cognitive decline in patients with mild AD.

FORBES: Solving The Fatal Puzzle Of Alzheimer's Disease

The drugmakers reported that their bapineuzumab compound failed to meet two primary endpoints and, consequently, they decided to discontinue additional Phase III research planned, although follow-up evaluations and final data analyses will be conducted ( back story).

FORBES: Lilly's Big Alzheimer's Bet: Will It Pay Off?

The companies decided to end the program for developing the compound, called Dimebon, after it failed to meet two primary endpoints in a phase 3 trial studying its use with the existing treatment Aricept in patients with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's.

WSJ: Medivation, Pfizer Alzheimer's Drug Fails to Meet Study Goals

Matt Herper: Speeding forward a decade: Why did you decide to file for approval, FDA approval, that first time, given that the studies had missed their primary endpoints and that a third study, the IMPACT trial, was already going on?

FORBES: The Man Behind The First Cancer-Treating Vaccine On The FDA And Innovation