News Summary: Alzheimer drug may slow brain plaque

MORE DISAPPOINTMENT: Two major studies of an experimental Alzheimer’s drug show it doesn’t stop mental decline, the latest setback in finding a treatment for the mind-robbing disease.

HOPEFUL SIGN: There was a hint that the drug bapineuzumab, made by Pfizer Inc. and Johnson & Johnson, might help if given sooner, before the disease has caused too much damage and memory loss.

WHAT’S NEXT: Tests in patients with mild mental impairment or those with brain plaque who haven’t yet developed disease symptoms. More results on this drug and a similar one by Eli Lilly & Co. are expected next month.