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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## Six-Month HIV Injection Shows 96% Effectiveness: A game Changer for Prevention?
**World Today News Exclusive Interview**
A new long-acting HIV prevention method, administered via a six-month injection, has delivered remarkable results in crucial clinical trials. This breakthrough offers a potential revolution in HIV prevention, particularly for individuals who face challenges adhering to daily medication regimens. Today, we delve deeper into this exciting progress with two leading experts: **Dr. Colleen Kelley**, Professor at Emory University School of Medicine and lead investigator of the Lenacapavir trial, and **Dr. Carlos del Rio**, Head of the Department of Internal Medicine at Emory University.
### A New Era in HIV prevention
**World Today News:** Dr. Kelley,could you elaborate on the key findings of the Lenacapavir trial and what makes this development so significant?
**Dr. Kelley:** The results were truly groundbreaking. In our study involving over 2,000 participants, Lenacapavir demonstrated a staggering 96% effectiveness rate in preventing HIV infection.This far surpassed the effectiveness of daily oral PrEP, with onyl two cases of HIV among those receiving Lenacapavir, compared to nine cases in the PrEP group.
**World Today News:** Dr. del Rio, what are the broader implications of this new long-acting injectable for the fight against HIV globally?
**dr. del Rio:** Lenacapavir represents a significant step forward in HIV prevention. This long-acting option offers individuals, especially those struggling with daily medication adherence, a powerful tool to protect themselves. It has the potential to considerably reduce HIV transmission rates worldwide, particularly in communities disproportionately affected by the epidemic.
### Addressing Challenges and Expanding Access
**World Today News:** Dr.Kelley, the trial deliberately included participants from diverse communities facing unique challenges related to HIV prevention. Could you explain the rationale behind this approach?
**Dr. Kelley:** Absolutely. Our selection of participants reflected the reality of the HIV epidemic. We included individuals from countries like Peru,Brazil,and South Africa,where access to healthcare resources and consistent medication adherence can be challenging.
**World Today News:** Dr. del Rio, how do you foresee Lenacapavir impacting access to HIV prevention in resource-limited settings?
**Dr. del Rio:** The long-acting nature of Lenacapavir could be transformative in these settings. Reduced frequency of governance simplifies treatment, lowers the burden on healthcare systems, and increases the likelihood of sustained protection.
### Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future?
**World Today News:** Dr. Kelley, what are the next steps for making Lenacapavir accessible to those who need it?
**Dr. Kelley:** We’ve submitted marketing applications to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and we’re hopeful for approval by 2025. Continued research is also crucial to explore Lenacapavir’s potential in other populations and settings.
**World Today News:** Dr. del Rio, what are your predictions for the future impact of Lenacapavir and other long-acting antiretrovirals on the global HIV landscape?
**Dr. del Rio:** This breakthrough marks a turning point. We can anticipate a future where long-acting options become increasingly widespread, empowering individuals with greater choices and control over their sexual health.
**Unlocking HIV Prevention for All**
This groundbreaking injection offers a beacon of hope in the fight against HIV. With its exceptional efficacy and simplified administration, Lenacapavir has the potential to transform HIV prevention, especially for marginalized communities. Let’s work together to ensure this remarkable advancement reaches those who need it most, paving the way for a future free from HIV.
* **Related Articles:**
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* “Understanding PrEP: A comprehensive Guide to HIV Prevention”
* “Global Efforts to End the HIV Epidemic: A Collaborative Journey”
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