The Peripheral and Central Nervous System Drugs AdvisoryCommittee of the FDA recommended approval on Thursday ofCognex, the Alzheimer's disease drug being developed by theParke-Davis division of Warner-Lambert Co.

The data supplied by Warner-Lambert of Morris Plains, N.J., tothe FDA committee provided statistically significant evidencethat Cognex improves cognitive function in Alzheimer'spatients.

Cognex, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, potentiates theactivity of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Deficits ofacetylcholine in the brain are thought to be linked to cognitiveimpairment of memory, language, learning and the ability toperform everyday activities.

Cognex is the first treatment for Alzheimer's disease everrecommended for approval by an FDA advisory committee.

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