More than 1,200 NHS patients are expected to take part in a clinical trial investigating whether existing ADHD and diabetes medicines could help slow Alzheimer’s disease.

The study will examine whether drugs originally developed for other conditions could offer new treatment possibilities for people living with the progressive brain disorder.

Researchers hope the trial will provide evidence about whether these medicines can influence the disease’s progression. Repurposing existing medicines may offer a faster route to investigating potential treatments than developing entirely new drugs, although their effectiveness and safety for Alzheimer’s patients must be established through clinical research.

Alzheimer’s disease affects memory, thinking and everyday activities, and remains a major challenge for patients, families and health services. Finding treatments that can slow its progression is a key priority for dementia research.

The trial does not mean that ADHD or diabetes medicines are proven treatments for Alzheimer’s. Patients should continue following advice from their healthcare professionals and should not change prescribed medication without medical guidance.

The findings could contribute to the wider search for effective Alzheimer’s treatments and help researchers identify new options for future clinical studies.