We’re closer than ever to better treatments, with 3 drugs being tested in phase 3 clinical trials we’re funding right now.
This is the last major step before new treatments can be approved for people with Parkinson's.
Phase 3, a final crucial step
These drugs are being re-purposed for Parkinson’s, meaning they already treat other conditions. So they've been through rigorous testing and we know they are generally safe. This will allow for a speedier process from final stages of research to approval, getting the drugs into the hands of people with Parkinson’s.
- Ambroxol, a re-purposed component of cough medicine, the phase 3 trial is underway.
- Telmisartan, is currently used to lower blood pressure, and is one of the drugs being trialled through EJS ACT-PD, now underway.
- Terazosin, is used for treating an enlarged prostate, and is another drug being trialled through EJS ACT-PD, now underway.
If they pass this final stage of testing, a new treatment could be available in a few years, not decades. And there will be more phase 3 trials to come this year.
Some of the most promising research projects, from cause to cure
Right now, we’re funding research to deepen our understanding of Parkinson’s, develop better treatments, improve symptom management, and ultimately find a cure. And none of this would be possible without your support. We believe we need to support all stages of research if we’re to find more and better treatments that work for everyone.
We fund a range of research, all supported by the priorities of people living with Parkinson’s. We can’t fund research alone and every decision is shaped by our community.
Our projects
Funding the Parkinson’s Brain Bank to provide precious human brain tissue to researchers across the globe. To help better understand Parkinson’s and unlock new treatments.
Understanding why some people with Parkinson’s experience freezing, a feeling of their feet being stuck to the spot. To support better strategies to manage this symptom. Led by Dr Jennifer Davies at Cardiff University.
Exploring the effects of ginger on gut health in Parkinson’s. Led by Professor Caroline Williams-Gray at Cambridge University.
Developing new treatments
We’re helping develop new treatments by turning the most promising science into drugs ready for testing. We don’t sit back and wait, we make sure great ideas don’t stall, and attract the funding needed to move potential treatments closer to people with Parkinson’s.
This is all made possible through our Parkinson’s Virtual Biotech, in partnership with the Parkinson’s Foundation.
We work with companies around the world. In 2026, we’re excited to see the first trials for 2 drugs designed to protect brain cells by stopping mitochondria, the brain cells’ batteries, from becoming faulty or clogging up cells. These trials wouldn’t have been possible without our investment, which helped attract millions of pounds from other investors to complete these early but crucial trials.
Thank you
It’s an exciting and hopeful time for Parkinson’s research and none of this would be possible without generous support from you.
Our research is powered by people with Parkinson’s, every step of the way.
“As someone living with Parkinson’s, I know firsthand the challenges it brings, which is why I am so passionate about research and how important it is. More funding and partnerships mean more hope.
"I hope for better treatments, a better quality of life, and one day a cure. Every step forward in research makes a real difference, not just for me but for my family, my friends, and everyone affected by Parkinson’s.”
- Nicky, a person with Parkinson's
Join our Research Support Network
Join our Research Support Network (RSN) to help find a cure and better treatments for Parkinson’s. Whether you have Parkinson’s or not, you can take part in trials and studies, connect with scientists, and help shape what research is done and how.