‘Twice-yearly injection of Lenacapavir can reduce HIV risk’

A new study has revealed that daily oral antiretrovirals, like Truvada, are highly effective at preventing HIV when taken consistently alongside regular medical check-ups but their efficacy significantly decreases with inconsistent use.

Also, a clinical trial shows that a twice-yearly injection of Lenacapavir can reduce the risk of acquiring Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) by an impressive 96 per cent, making it significantly more effective than the standard daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication.

The breakthrough published in the New England Journal of Medicine by a team of researchers conveys renewed hope for advancing HIV prevention efforts for populations facing challenges with adherence to daily oral medications.

Conducted by Emory University and Grady Health System, the trial included 2,179 participants who were administered the Lenacapavir injection with results indicating that 99 per cent of those who received the injection did not acquire HIV, compared to nine new HIV cases in the Truvada (oral PrEP) group, which included 1,086 participants.

The study was conducted across 88 sites in various countries including Africa to ensure racially, ethnically, and gender-diverse participants. The researchers explained that the trial’s inclusive approach underscored the importance of having accessible and reliable HIV prevention options, particularly for those with limited access to healthcare.

According to the team, such results highlight the higher adherence rates associated with the injectable form, as opposed to the daily oral pill, which requires consistent use to maintain effectiveness.

Lead author of the study and professor at Emory University, Dr Colleen Kelley, described the findings as profound advancement in medicine, noting that the high efficacy of the injectable is particularly significant for individuals who struggle with the challenges of daily oral medication.

“This is a considerable advancement for those in populations disproportionately affected by HIV, especially those whose circumstances make daily adherence to oral medications difficult,” she added.

Kelley highlighted that achieving nearly 100 per cent efficacy with an injectable medication taken only twice a year is remarkable.

The principal investigator for the trial, Grady Health System, Dr Valeria Cantos, emphasised the importance of community-focused research. “Our work at Grady reflects a commitment to equity and ensuring that underserved populations have access to trials and treatments that best address their needs,” she said.

The study also sheds light on the healthcare disparities that contribute to high HIV infection rates, especially among cis-gender gay men, and Black and Hispanic populations, who account for a significant percentage of new infections.

According to the team, results from the trial also suggested that Lenacapavir could soon provide a viable alternative to daily PrEP for individuals who have difficulty adhering to the daily regimen. The team also revealed that the drug is currently under review by the FDA for potential approval by 2025 following the completion of the Phase III trial.

Cantos stressed the importance of equitable access to the new treatments especially for those who are most at risk. “We now have novel tools for HIV prevention, and the challenge is to make them available in a way that reaches everyone, particularly those most at risk,” he said.

He noted that if approved, Lenacapavir promises to be a game-changer in the fight against HIV, offering an effective and accessible solution for those in need.