Six-Month Injection Shows Promising Results as New HIV Prevention Method
A new HIV prevention method, delivered via a six-month injection, has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in clinical trials. Lenacapavir, the long-acting antiretroviral drug, proved to be significantly more effective than daily oral PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), according to research published in the esteemed New England Journal of Medicine.
The international study, led by researchers from Emory University and Grady Health System, involved over 2,000 participants. Only two individuals receiving Lenacapavir contracted HIV, compared to nine cases among those taking daily PrEP. This translates to an overall effectiveness rate of 96% for Lenacapavir, highlighting its potential as a game-changer in HIV prevention.
“Lenacapavir’s near 100% effectiveness is remarkable, especially for those who cannot take the drug every day or who have limited medical resources,” said Dr. Colleen Kelley, professor at Emory University School of Medicine and the study’s lead investigator.
The trial enlisted diverse participants from countries including Peru, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, South Africa, Thailand, and the United States, deliberately targeting communities disproportionately impacted by HIV. This focus stemmed from the recognition that many individuals in these groups struggle with adhering to daily medication regimens, underscoring the urgent need for more convenient and accessible alternatives.
The alarming statistic that over half of new HIV cases in the United States in 2022 were among cisgender gay men, with 70% being African-American or Hispanic, further emphasizes the critical need for flexible prevention strategies.
With the successful completion of the Phase III clinical trial, marke
ting applications for Lenacapavir have been submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Researchers are hopeful for approval by 2025, potentially offering a groundbreaking solution for individuals who face challenges with traditional daily medication.
Dr. Carlos del Rio, head of the Department of Internal Medicine at Emory University, highlighted the significance of this breakthrough: “Long-acting antiretroviral drugs add new tools to HIV prevention. HIV infections worldwide Increase the number of HIV infection.”
Lenacapavir’s impressive effectiveness, coupled with its convenient administration, holds immense promise for reducing HIV transmission rates and transforming HIV prevention efforts globally.
An HIV prevention injection (Lenacapavir) is given every six months, and clinical trials have shown it to be more effective than oral PrEP. (Associated Press)
2024-12-01 05:14:00
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## HIV Prevention Revolution: Six-Month Injection Outperforms Daily Pills in Trials
**Could a simple injection every six months revolutionize HIV prevention?** Promising results from a landmark clinical trial suggest it’s very possible. Lenacapavir, a long-acting antiretroviral drug delivered via injection, has demonstrated a staggering 96% effectiveness in preventing HIV transmission, surpassing the efficacy of daily oral PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis).This breakthrough could be life-changing for individuals struggling with daily medication adherence, notably in communities disproportionately affected by HIV.
To delve deeper into this exciting progress, World-Today News spoke with two leading experts: **Dr. Colleen Kelley,** professor at Emory University School of Medicine and the lead investigator of the Lenacapavir trial, and **Dr. Carlos del Rio,** head of the Department of Internal Medicine at Emory University, who has dedicated his career to HIV research and advocacy.
### A Game Changer for Prevention
**World Today news:** Dr. Kelley,your team’s research has generated a wave of optimism. Can you elaborate on the importance of these findings?
**Dr. Colleen Kelley:** The near 100% effectiveness of Lenacapavir in our trial is truly remarkable. This long-acting Injectable offers a powerful new weapon in our fight against HIV. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals who face challenges with daily medication, such as those experiencing homelessness, living in remote areas, or simply struggling with adherence.
**World Today News:** Dr. del Rio,how might this new approach impact communities disproportionately affected by HIV?
**Dr. Carlos del Rio:** This is a crucial advance. We see alarming disparities in HIV transmission rates among certain groups,particularly cisgender gay and bisexual men,as well as African American and Hispanic communities.
Lenacapavir’s convenience and efficacy could be transformative, empowering these populations with a more accessible and lasting prevention option.
### “Near 100% Effective”: A Closer Look
**World Today News:** Dr. Kelley, what were the key factors contributing to Lenacapavir’s extraordinary performance?
**Dr.Colleen Kelley:**
Lenacapavir’s unique mechanism of action allows it to remain active in the body for an extended period, providing consistent protection against HIV infection. In our trial, only two participants receiving Lenacapavir contracted HIV compared to nine in the daily PrEP group. This demonstrably higher effectiveness is incredibly encouraging.
**World Today News:** Dr. del Rio, how does this new drug compare to existing prevention methods?
**Dr. Carlos del Rio:** while daily PrEP has been a valuable tool, it requires strict adherence to be effective, which can be challenging for some individuals.
The six-month injection format of Lenacapavir eliminates this hurdle, offering a discreet and convenient option that could significantly improve adherence rates and ultimately lead to fewer HIV infections.
### The Road Ahead: Implications and Predictions
**world Today News:** Dr. Kelley, what are the next steps in making Lenacapavir widely available?
**Dr. Colleen Kelley:** Marketing applications have been submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Management. We’re hopeful for approval by 2025.
**World Today News:** Dr. del rio, what impact do you foresee Lenacapavir having on the global landscape of HIV prevention?
**Dr.Carlos del Rio:**
This is a potential game-changer. Long-acting antiretrovirals, like Lenacapavir, are expanding our toolkit for HIV prevention. We could see a notable reduction in new HIV cases globally as this innovative approach becomes more widely accessible.
**World Today News:** What message do you have for our readers about this crucial development?
**Dr. Colleen Kelley:**
This is a sign of hope. With continued research and investment, we can move closer to a world without HIV.
**Dr. Carlos del Rio:** We are witnessing a remarkable shift in the fight against HIV. This innovation joins a growing arsenal of prevention tools, empowering individuals to protect themselves and contribute to ending the epidemic.
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Want to learn more about HIV prevention? Visit our dedicated health section for additional resources and information.**
