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A Lancet study shows promising results for an annual HIV prevention injection, lenacapavir. In Stage 1 trials, 40 HIV-negative participants had no significant side effects
Although the study showed that the injection was safe and highly effective, the small sample size of the study limits the generalisability of the results. (News18)
HIV is a serious infection that can have a devastating impact on people’s lives. Left untreated, it can develop into AIDS, a life-threatening condition. Currently, individuals at high risk of contracting HIV rely on daily pills or regular injections for protection. However, a recent clinical trial offers hope for a more convenient prevention method.
A ground-breaking study published in a medical journal called The Lancet has shown promising results for an annual injection that could protect against HIV. According to a PTI report, the injection containing a drug called ‘Lenacapavir’ developed by Gilead Sciences, a research-based biopharmaceutical company in the US, has proven effective in Stage 1 clinical trials.
How Lenacapavir Works
Administered intramuscularly, lenacapavir provides sustained protection by blocking HIV from entering and multiplying in human cells. According to the phase 1 randomised controlled trial, the drug remained detectable in the body for at least 56 weeks after a single injection.
This long-lasting effect could revolutionise HIV prevention, particularly for individuals who find it challenging to adhere to daily medication.
The Clinical Trial
According to the authors of the clinical trial, 40 HIV-negative participants, aged 18-55 years, were included in the study. Two versions of the drug were created—one containing 5 percent ethanol and the other with 10 percent. Half of the participants received the first version of lenacapavir, while the other half received the second. The drug was administered as a single 5000 milligram dose.
Samples collected from participants over 56 weeks were analysed to evaluate safety and drug behaviour. Both formulations were found to be “safe and well tolerated”. The most common side effect was pain at the injection site, which was generally mild, resolved within a week, and was substantially reduced by pre-treatment with ice.
Although the study showed that the injection was safe and highly effective, the small sample size of the study limits the generalisability of the results, and further data from a larger, more diverse group is required to assess the safety of the yearly lenacapavir injection.
Current Preventive Measures
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) damages the immune system by attacking white blood cells. The most advanced stage of HIV infection leads to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). At present, there is no cure or approved vaccine for HIV/AIDS.
Presently, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is available in the form of daily pills or injections administered every eight weeks. While PrEP is highly effective in reducing HIV risk, maintaining a daily medication schedule can be difficult for some.
According to the latest data from 2023, an estimated 39 million people worldwide are living with HIV. Of these, 65% reside in the African region. In such a situation, effective development and utilisation of this yearly biomedical intervention may help reduce the global burden by preventing further HIV/AIDS risk.
- Location :
United Kingdom (UK)
