Drug Discov Today. 2002 Jan; 7(1): 29-35.

Assessing cognitive function in clinical trials: latest developments and future directions.

Wesnes K.

Cognitive Drug Research, CDR House, 24 Portman Rd, Reading, UK RG30 1EA. keithw@cdr.org.uk

Properly developed automated test systems are of value for assessing changes in cognitive function in clinical trials. Besides the other advantages that automation brings to trials, such as increased reliability and utility, it is shown that such systems are also more sensitive to change in cognitive function than traditional nonautomated procedures. Data from a variety of topical areas in drug development are presented to illustrate the added value such techniques have brought. The latest developments in automation include remote testing via the Internet and telephone.