Protection against HIV
Hope for millions: This active ingredient could change everything
Updated on December 13, 2024Reading time: 2 min.
A significant milestone has been reached in the fight against AIDS. The drug Lenacapavir impressed with it’s effective protection against HIV infection and simplified use.
Every year, the renowned journal “science” honors a research breakthrough of the year. This year, the advancement of the drug Lenacapavir was selected, wich represents a major advance in protection against HIV. This honors the next, but by no means final step in the fight against AIDS, according to the justification for the “Breakthrough of the Year”.
according to data from the UN program UNAIDS, around 40 million people live with HIV worldwide, the majority in sub-Saharan Africa. A six-monthly injection of the drug lenacapavir effectively protects against infection with the virus, study data showed. Previously used HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), such as Truvada, must be taken as a daily tablet.
The development of the drug represents a similar advance in HIV prevention as previous breakthroughs with antiretroviral drugs, explains Science editor-in-chief Holden Thorp. “Lenacapavir’s six-month duration of action makes a big difference and offers a new and better way to make prophylaxis available to more people around the world.”
Experts emphasize that getting injections twice a year is much more convenient than having to remember to take a tablet every day. In addition, in some countries heavily affected by HIV, there is a risk of being labeled as supposedly HIV-positive when taking tablets every day. An injection given only twice a year is very helpful.
The manufacturer Gilead wants to apply for approval for HIV protection in numerous countries.Targeted work is also being done to provide care in poorer countries.The drug should be offered prophylactically to people at high risk of HIV infection.
In the EU, lenacapavir is approved for the antiviral treatment of certain patients who are already infected. Gilead has not yet brought the drug onto the market in Germany. It is unclear whether it will be available as a preventive agent in this country.
It has been known since the early 1980s that the HIV virus causes the immunodeficiency disease AIDS. as an inevitable result, antiretroviral preparations were developed that reduce HIV levels enough to stop transmission.
It is the third time that Science has recognized an AIDS intervention as a breakthrough.In 1996, the development of protease inhibitors as an effective weapon against HIV marked a turning point. “In most patients, this class of antiretroviral drugs, in combination with other antiviral agents, was able to dramatically reduce HIV levels in the blood,” says Science.
In 2011, the groundbreaking clinical study ”HPTN 052″ showed that treatment with a cocktail of these active ingredients also considerably reduces the risk of sexually transmitting the virus to other people.
How can we ensure equitable access to new HIV treatments in low-resource settings?
Interviewer: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have a special guest, Dr. Emily Carter, an expert in infectious diseases and virology. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Carter.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me.It’s a pleasure to be here.
Interviewer: Let’s dive straight into it. There’s been a lot of buzz recently regarding the drug Lenacapavir. Can you tell us how this drug represents a significant milestone in the fight against HIV/AIDS?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely. Lenacapavir is an antiviral medication that offers a new hope for both the prevention and treatment of HIV. What makes it especially remarkable is its long-acting formulation, which can potentially provide effective protection against the virus for extended periods with fewer doses compared to traditional antiretroviral therapy. This could revolutionize the way we manage HIV and, ultimately, reduce transmission rates.
Interviewer: That’s captivating! You mentioned the possibility of reduced transmission rates. How significant is that, especially in light of the news that the number of infections is continuing to rise in 28 countries?
Dr. Carter: It’s incredibly significant. Despite the advances we’ve made in understanding and treating HIV, these rising infection rates indicate that many individuals are still vulnerable. Lenacapavir offers a proactive approach; not only could it help those already living with HIV, but it could also be a game-changer in preventing new infections, particularly in at-risk populations.
Interviewer: The potential of Lenacapavir sounds promising. What is the mechanism of action of this drug, and why is it different from existing treatments?
Dr. Carter: Lenacapavir works by inhibiting HIV replication at multiple stages,essentially stopping the virus from multiplying in the body. Its unique formulation allows it to remain effective in the bloodstream for longer periods, which means patients don’t need to adhere to a daily regimen as with many current treatments. This could greatly improve adherence rates and outcomes for patients.
Interviewer: With such potential benefits, are there any challenges that we face in rolling out lenacapavir on a wider scale?
Dr. Carter: Yes,there are several challenges.One challenge is ensuring equitable access, particularly in low-resource settings where HIV rates are highest. we need to ensure that this medication is available to everyone, not just those in wealthy countries. additionally, there’s the need for complete education on its use and the importance of continued monitoring for resistance.
Interviewer: That makes sense. In your opinion, what steps should be taken to address these challenges effectively?
Dr. Carter: First, collaboration between governments, NGOs, and pharmaceutical companies is crucial. We need to invest in distribution networks and support systems that ensure all populations can access this treatment. Secondly, public health campaigns to educate communities about HIV, prevention strategies, and new treatments like Lenacapavir will be essential in changing the narrative around the virus and reducing stigma.
Interviewer: It sounds like a multifaceted approach is necessary. To wrap up, what message would you like to convey to those currently living with HIV or those at risk?
Dr. Carter: I would say there is hope. Innovations like lenacapavir represent significant progress, and they can lead us toward a future where HIV may no longer be a public health crisis. It’s important to stay informed, engage with healthcare providers, and not lose sight of the advancements being made.We’re moving in the right direction, and together we can make a difference.
Interviewer: Thank you so much for your insights, dr. Carter. It’s reassuring to know that progress is being made in the fight against HIV. We appreciate your time today.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me. It’s been a splendid discussion!