Investigating sodium selenate as a treatment for behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia

Behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) is a form of dementia that primarily affects personality, behaviour, and decision-making, often striking people in their 50s or 60s. There are currently no approved treatments that slow its progression. This Phase 2 clinical trial is investigating sodium selenate — a compound containing selenium — as a potential treatment that may protect brain cells from the abnormal build-up of a protein called tau, which is thought to drive the disease. Participants are randomly assigned to take either sodium selenate tablets (15mg three times a day) or a placebo for 52 weeks. Researchers measure brain volume changes using MRI, tau levels in the cerebrospinal fluid, cognitive function, and behavioural symptoms over the course of the year. You may be eligible if you are 35 or older with a confirmed or probable diagnosis of bvFTD or a related condition (PNFA), live in the community, and have a carer who spends at least 10 hours a week with you and can help ensure medication compliance. Various conditions including liver or kidney disease, unstable diabetes, or certain medication combinations may affect eligibility. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception throughout.