‘Half-yearly injections show 96% effectiveness in HIV prevention’

LONDON: A groundbreaking study published in the New England Journal of Medicine highlights the potential of twice-yearly injections of lenacapavir, an antiretroviral drug, as a highly effective pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) strategy for preventing HIV. The phase 3 trial demonstrated that lenacapavir reduced HIV infection risk by 96%, making it a transformative option for at-risk populations.
Efficacy: Out of 2,179 participants receiving lenacapavir, only two contracted HIV, compared to nine in the group using daily oral emtricitabine-tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Truvada).
Adherence: Lenacapavir injections showed significantly higher adherence rates than daily oral regimens.
Safety: No major safety concerns were identified, although future studies may explore resistance concerns in rare cases of breakthrough infection.
Researchers liken lenacapavir's effectiveness to that of a vaccine, particularly in underserved communities where adherence to daily medications is challenging. However, affordability and access in low- and middle-income countries remain critical hurdles.
Experts emphasize the drug’s potential to revolutionize HIV prevention efforts, aligning with UNAIDS’ 2030 targets for reducing HIV incidence globally.
This development marks a significant step forward in combating HIV, particularly among vulnerable groups, and could reshape global prevention strategies.