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

NCT ID NCT03748303

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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

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

    Los Angeles, California, 90033, United States