Could a common cold sore drug slow Alzheimer's? new study explores the link.

NCT ID NCT03282916

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

Summary

This study tested whether the antiviral drug valacyclovir (Valtrex) can slow memory loss in people with mild Alzheimer's disease who also carry the herpes simplex virus. About 120 participants received either the drug or a placebo for 18 months. The goal was to see if treating the virus could help preserve thinking and daily living skills.

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 โ€” we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ALZHEIMER DISEASE are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease herpes simplex type 1 infectious disease herpes simplex type 2 infectious disease

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Banner Alzheimer's Institute (BAI)

    Phoenix, Arizona, 85006, United States

  • New York State Psychiatric Institute

    New York, New York, 10032, United States

  • New York University School of Medicine

    New York, New York, 10016, United States