Injectable Form of PrEP Could Be a Game Changer for HIV Prevention
An injectable form of PrEP could change the way people fight HIV. The WHO guidelines are aimed at enhancing access to HIV prevention services, recognizing that access is a major barrier. They also stress the need for communities to be more involved in HIV prevention services. A recent deal between ViiV Healthcare and UNITAID to supply a generic version of CAB-LA could significantly reduce the price of the treatment.
Truvada
While the daily pill is still the most effective form of PrEP, the new injectable version could make it easier for some people to stay on it. For people who have trouble remembering to take pills or have trouble with refills, the injectable form of PrEP could be easier to stick with. It may also provide more privacy.
This injectable form of PrEP is safe and effective, according to a new study. The study enrolled more than 3000 young cisgender women in sub-Saharan Africa. The study ended early, but an interim analysis showed that the injections were more effective than the pills. Overall, the injections reduced the risk of HIV infection by 89%. And, after reclassifying those who already had HIV, the results were even more promising.
Descovy
The injectable form of PrEP, called Descovy, has been approved for adult and adolescent use in preventing HIV. It works by blocking the HIV virus’ ability to make copies of itself and enter cells. If you have HIV, you should talk to your doctor before you begin taking Descovy. It is important to discuss your HIV status and current medications with your doctor. Also, you should discuss whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding before taking Descovy.
The injectable form of PrEP has several advantages. It can be taken on a more convenient schedule, and it is easier to use. Injectable PrEP is more convenient to administer, and it does not require daily administration. It also has a longer period between injections.
Islatravir
The recent approval of a new implantable form of the HIV drug islatravir may change the way people take PrEP. This device, about the size of a matchstick, slowly releases the drug over time, similar to a long-acting contraceptive implant. An early study suggested that the implant was effective in maintaining protective levels of the drug for more than a year. This new drug is expected to be available to people in the next few years.
The new HIV prevention drug is an important step in reducing HIV transmission. It is estimated to reduce the risk of infection by up to 69% in healthy HIV-uninfected cisgender men and women who take the preventive pill daily. Although the drug does not offer a universal solution, it represents a huge step in the fight against the HIV epidemic in Africa and the U.S.
