Brain steroid injection tested for Alzheimer's – but trial halted early

NCT ID NCT03748303

Terminated Disease control Sponsor: University of Arizona Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This early study tested a weekly injection of allopregnanolone, a natural brain steroid, in 6 people with early Alzheimer's or mild cognitive impairment. The goal was to find a safe dose and check for side effects. The trial was terminated early, so we have limited information on whether it helps.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Allopregnanolone (a natural brain steroid given as a weekly injection)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a treatment that slows or improves early Alzheimer's symptoms.
What could go wrong: This was a very early, small Phase 1 trial that was terminated, so results are limited. The drug may not work or could cause side effects.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease Cognitive Dysfunction dementia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALZHEIMER DEMENTIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Southern California - Alzheimer Disease Research Center - Healthcare Consultation Center II

Los Angeles, California, 90033, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.