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
#day #AIDS #prevention #injections #effective #year #Free #Health #Network
## World-First Six-Month Injection Shows Promise as Revolutionary HIV Prevention tool
**New research reveals a potentially game-changing HIV prevention method: a long-acting injection administered every six months that’s shown to be significantly more effective than daily oral prep. Could this be the key to making HIV prevention more accessible adn user-friendly for vulnerable populations?**
Joining us today are two leading experts at the forefront of this groundbreaking research. **Dr. colleen Kelley**, professor at Emory University School of Medicine and lead investigator of the Lenacapavir trial, brings decades of experience in infectious disease research. **Dr.Carlos del Rio**, head of Emory University’s Department of Internal Medicine, is a renowned expert in HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment.
This complete analysis delves deeper into the landmark study, exploring the potential impact of this long-acting injectable on global HIV prevention efforts.
### Game-Changer for HIV Prevention
**World-Today-News:** Dr. Kelley, your study suggests Lenacapavir could be a game-changer in the fight against HIV. Could you elaborate on the study’s findings and it’s potential impact?
**Dr. Kelley:** The findings were indeed remarkable. In this large, international trial, Lenacapavir demonstrated a staggering 96% effectiveness rate in preventing HIV transmission compared to daily oral PrEP. This near-perfect protection, coupled with the convenience of a six-month injection, holds immense promise, particularly for individuals who struggle with daily medication adherence.
### Addressing Health Inequities
**World-Today-News: **Dr. del Rio, the study specifically targeted communities disproportionately affected by HIV. How will this new method address existing health inequities?
**dr. Del Rio:** This is crucial. we recognize that many communities, often marginalized populations facing systemic barriers, find daily medication regimens challenging.
This injectable offers a potent weapon against repeating patterns of unequal access to healthcare. Its effectiveness and convenience can empower individuals who might or else be underserved, ultimately contributing to a more equitable global response to HIV.
### Real-World Applications
**World-today-News:** Dr. Kelley, what are the practical implications of this breakthrough?
**Dr. Kelley:** We envision Lenacapavir providing a powerful tool for diverse populations. Imagine a young person, perhaps starting college or entering a new career – facing the challenges of adhering to a daily medication schedule. With this injection, they could receive protection for six months, alleviating that burden and offering peace of mind.
**World-Today-News:** What about accessibility?
**Dr. kelley:** We’re optimistic about expanded access.
This method requires fewer healthcare visits, potentially lowering costs and making PrEP more accessible in resource-limited settings.
### Looking Ahead
**world-Today-News:** Dr. del Rio, what are your predictions for the future of Lenacapavir?
**Dr. del Rio: ** This is truly a turning point, potentially revolutionizing HIV prevention.
If the FDA approves Lenacapavir in 2025, as anticipated, we could see a dramatic shift in the landscape of HIV prevention worldwide. Imagine a future where choosing between daily pills and a six-month injection makes PrEP accessible and empowering for everyone, nonetheless of their circumstances.
**World-today-News:** Thank you both for sharing your expertise on this groundbreaking advance.
**Take Action**
This breakthrough in HIV prevention holds immense promise for individuals and communities globally. To learn more about HIV prevention strategies and resources, visit:
* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/
* World Health Association (WHO): https://www.who.int/
Let’s continue the conversation. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
