New HIV Vaccine Shows 99% Effectiveness
A new HIV prevention drug has successfully completed phase three of clinical trials, showing 99% effectiveness. Unlike traditional prevention methods, it is administered only twice a year, rather than daily.
Despite HIV treatment, the risk of chronic inflammation remains high, potentially leading to serious diseases. A new strain of the virus has recently been discovered, emphasizing the need for new prevention methods, according to 24 Kanal, referencing The New England Journal of Medicine.
Clinical Trial Results
A team of scientists from Emory University in the U.S. completed phase three of testing for the “Lenacapavir” drug. The bi-annual injections provide 99% protection. These findings were published in The New England Journal of Medicine.
The drug was compared to “Truvada” tablets, which must be taken daily. Among 2,179 participants receiving Lenacapavir, only two contracted HIV. In the Truvada group, nine out of 1,086 participants became infected. Patients receiving injections followed instructions better than those on pills.
Advantages of Injections
Researchers note that nearly half of people stop taking pills within the first year. Therefore, the injectable drug, requiring only two doses per year, could be a solution for those who struggle with accessing medical services.
The study participants were men and transgender individuals from high-risk HIV countries, such as Peru, Brazil, and South Africa. The drug’s effectiveness for women has also been confirmed.
Future of the Drug
“For people who do not take daily pills, injectable medications may be a viable solution,” researchers concluded.
The results have been submitted to the U.S. Department of Health. The drug could be approved for sale by 2025. The annual cost is about $40,000.
