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: Could a Six-Month Injection be The Key?
A groundbreaking study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has ignited hope in the fight against HIV. Lenacapavir, a long-acting antiretroviral drug administered as a six-month injection, has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in preventing HIV infection, surpassing the effectiveness of daily oral PrEP.
To delve deeper into the potential implications of this discovery, we spoke with **Dr. Colleen Kelley,** Professor at Emory University School of medicine and lead investigator of the lenacapavir trial, and **Dr. Carlos del Rio,** esteemed head of the Department of Internal Medicine at Emory University.
### A New Era of HIV Prevention
**World Today news:** Dr. Kelley,the trial results are truly remarkable. Can you elaborate on the key findings and what makes Lenacapavir so promising?
**Dr. Colleen Kelley:** Absolutely. In our international study involving over 2,000 participants, Lenacapavir demonstrated a near 100% effectiveness rate, with onyl two cases of HIV infection compared to nine in the group taking daily PrEP.This translates to a 96% reduction in HIV risk. The convenience of a six-month injection removes the barrier of daily adherence, making it a game-changer, especially for individuals struggling with medication consistency.
**World Today News:** Dr.del Rio,how significant is this breakthrough in the context of the global HIV epidemic?
**Dr. Carlos del Rio:** This is truly a landmark achievement. Long-acting antiretroviral drugs like Lenacapavir add a powerful new tool to our prevention arsenal. They offer flexibility and convenience that traditional daily regimens lack, holding immense potential to curb HIV transmission rates, especially in communities disproportionately affected by the virus.
### Reaching Vulnerable Populations
**World Today News:** The study specifically targeted communities facing higher HIV incidence rates.Why was this approach crucial?
**Dr. Colleen Kelley:** We know that many individuals, notably within marginalized groups, struggle with daily pill adherence due to various social, economic, and logistical factors.
**Dr.Carlos del Rio:** This is crucial as these populations bear a disproportionate burden of the HIV epidemic. By offering a more accessible and convenient prevention option,we can better address health disparities and empower individuals to take control of their sexual health.
### The Future of HIV prevention
**World Today News:** What are the next steps in bringing Lenacapavir to the public?
**Dr. Colleen Kelley:** Marketing applications have been submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and we are hopeful for approval by 2025.
**World Today News:** This is truly an exciting progress. What impact do you foresee Lenacapavir having on HIV prevention efforts globally?
**dr. Carlos del Rio:** Lenacapavir has the potential to revolutionize HIV prevention. Its availability could significantly reduce transmission rates,paving the path towards achieving meaningful progress in the fight against this global health challenge.
**Call to Action:**
Stay informed about the latest developments in HIV prevention. Share this article with your networks and join the conversation about this crucial breakthrough. For further insights into HIV/AIDS, explore our related articles on PrEP effectiveness, global HIV statistics, and the latest research advancements.
