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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## Could a Six-Month Injection Revolutionize HIV Prevention?
**New research indicates promising results for Lenacapavir, a long-acting antiretroviral drug delivered via injection, potentially offering a game-changing HIV prevention method.** This groundbreaking development could transform how individuals at risk of HIV infection protect themselves, especially those who struggle wiht daily medication regimens.
To delve deeper into the implications of this breakthrough, we spoke with **Dr. Colleen Kelley**, professor at Emory University School of Medicine and lead investigator of the Lenacapavir study, and **Dr. Carlos del Rio**, head of the Department of Internal Medicine at Emory University.
### **A Closer Look at Lenacapavir’s Effectiveness**
**World Today News:** Dr. Kelley, can you elaborate on the impressive findings of the Lenacapavir clinical trial?
**Dr. Kelley:** The results have been truly remarkable. In our international trial involving over 2,000 participants, Lenacapavir demonstrated a 96% effectiveness rate in preventing HIV infection, compared to 90% for daily oral prep. This significantly reduced the number of HIV transmissions in the Lenacapavir group.
**World today News:** Dr. del Rio,how notable is this level of effectiveness in the fight against HIV?
**Dr. del Rio:** This is a major advance in HIV prevention. Lenacapavir’s near 100% effectiveness is unprecedented and could potentially change the landscape of HIV prevention globally, particularly in communities disproportionately affected by the virus.
### **Accessibility and Convenience: Breaking Down Barriers**
**World Today News:** One potential benefit highlighted in the study is Lenacapavir’s convenience and ease of use.
**Dr. Kelley:** absolutely. Many individuals struggle to adhere to daily medication regimens due to various factors like forgetfulness, stigma, or limited access to healthcare. A six-month injection offers a compelling choice, simplifying prevention and reducing the burden on individuals.
**World Today News:** What dose this mean for marginalized communities disproportionately impacted by HIV?
**Dr. del Rio:** This could be revolutionary. Think about demographics like cisgender gay men, particularly african-American and Hispanic communities, who are facing alarming rates of new HIV infections. Easier access to effective prevention methods like Lenacapavir can significantly curb these disparities.
### **Looking Ahead: Potential Impact and Future Directions**
**World Today News:** Dr. Kelley, what’s the next step for Lenacapavir?
**Dr. Kelley:** We’ve submitted marketing applications to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and we are hopeful for approval by 2025. If approved, Lenacapavir could become widely available, offering a new and powerful tool in the fight against HIV.
**World Today News:** Dr. del Rio, what are your predictions for the future of HIV prevention with this new development?
**Dr. del Rio:**
This is a pivotal moment. Lenacapavir’s success paves the way for further research and development of long-acting antiretroviral drugs. This could lead to even more convenient and effective prevention strategies,ultimately leading to our goal of ending the HIV epidemic.
**The lenacapavir trial offers a glimmer of hope in the ongoing fight against HIV. Its ease of use and remarkable effectiveness have the potential to revolutionize HIV prevention, making it more accessible and ultimately contributing to a future where HIV transmission is minimized globally.**
**Learn more:**
* [Learn about the importance of PrEP](link to article on PrEP)
* [explore other advancements in HIV/AIDS research](link to article on HIV research)
* [Find HIV testing and prevention resources near you](link to resource)
