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 Prevention Injection Shows Remarkable Success: Could Be a game-Changer in the Fight Against AIDS
**A new long-acting HIV prevention injection, Lenacapavir, has shown astounding promise in clinical trials, proving significantly more effective than daily oral PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis).** This breakthrough offers hope for individuals struggling with adherence to daily medication and those with limited access to healthcare resources.
Joining us today to discuss this groundbreaking development are two leading experts in the field of HIV research and prevention: **Dr. Colleen Kelley**, professor at Emory university School of Medicine and lead investigator of the Phase III clinical trial for Lenacapavir, and **Dr. Carlos del Rio**, head of the Department of Internal Medicine at Emory University, renowned for his work on HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention strategies.
### Unprecedented Effectiveness of a Long-Acting Solution
**Q: Dr. Kelley, can you elaborate on the remarkable effectiveness of Lenacapavir as demonstrated in the recent clinical trials?**
**dr. Kelley**: Absolutely. Our study involved over 2,000 participants from diverse backgrounds, deliberately targeting communities disproportionately impacted by HIV. we found that only two individuals receiving Lenacapavir contracted HIV, compared to nine cases in the group taking daily PrEP. This translates to an astounding 96% effectiveness rate, highlighting the extraordinary potential of Lenacapavir as a long-acting prevention option.
**How does this level of effectiveness compare to existing prevention methods?**
**Dr. del Rio**: Lenacapavir’s near 100% effectiveness is truly remarkable. While daily PrEP is highly effective, adherence is frequently enough a challenge. Lenacapavir, with its six-month dosing schedule, significantly improves convenience and simplifies the prevention process. This is especially crucial for marginalized communities who may face barriers to consistent daily medication.
### A Hopeful Future for HIV Prevention
**Q: What are the potential implications of this breakthrough for individuals at risk of HIV infection?**
**Dr. Kelley**: For individuals who struggle with daily medication regimens or have limited access to healthcare, Lenacapavir offers a new avenue of protection. This is particularly notable given the alarming statistic that over half of new HIV cases in the US in 2022 were among cisgender gay men, with a disproportionate impact on African-American and hispanic communities.
**Dr.del Rio**: Long-acting antiretroviral drugs like lenacapavir add new and vital tools to our HIV prevention arsenal.This is a significant step towards our goal of ending the HIV epidemic.
**Q: What are the next steps for making Lenacapavir available to those who need it moast?**
**Dr. Kelley**: With the successful completion of the Phase III trial, we have submitted marketing applications to the FDA. We are hopeful for approval by 2025, possibly paving the way for this game-changing solution to reach the community.
### A Global Impact
**Q: How do you envision this breakthrough impacting global HIV prevention efforts?**
**Dr. del Rio**: Lenacapavir’s effectiveness and convenient dosing schedule make it a prominent candidate for deployment in global settings. This could have a significant impact on reducing transmission rates in areas with limited resources and high HIV prevalence.
**What message do you have for those looking to protect themselves and others from HIV infection?**
**Dr. Kelley**: Knowledge is power. Stay informed about the latest prevention options, talk to your healthcare provider, and explore the choices that best fit your individual needs.
**This is a truly exciting time in the fight against HIV**. **With continued research, innovation, and dedication, we can ultimately achieve our goal of an AIDS-free generation.**
**For more information on HIV prevention and the latest breakthroughs, visit world-today-news.com’s Health section. Share your thoughts in the comments section below.**
