A long-acting injectable HIV treatment, Cabenuva (cabotegravir and rilpivirine), is demonstrating versatility and a strong preference among patients, including those newly diagnosed, according to recent data presented at the 33rd Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI 2026) in Denver, Colorado. The findings, announced February 24, 2026, by ViiV Healthcare, suggest a significant shift in HIV treatment paradigms, offering a less frequent dosing schedule than traditional daily oral medications. This development addresses a critical need for improved adherence and quality of life for individuals living with HIV.
The IMPAACT 2017 (MOCHA) study, a phase I/II trial, showed that 94.4% of adolescents aged 12 to under 18 years who switched from daily oral HIV treatment to Cabenuva every two months maintained viral suppression at week 96. Notably, over 97% of these adolescents expressed a preference for injections over daily pills at all weeks of the study. This high preference underscores the potential of long-acting injectables to alleviate the burden of daily medication and improve treatment experiences, particularly for younger patients. The data builds on earlier findings and expands the applicability of Cabenuva to a broader patient population.
Adolescent Data Highlights Treatment Success
The IMPAACT 2017 trial represents a landmark achievement, being the first to demonstrate the efficacy of a complete injectable long-acting regimen in adolescents with HIV. Kimberly Smith, M.D., MPH, Head of Research & Development at ViiV Healthcare, emphasized the significance of the results, stating, “IMPAACT 2017 is a landmark trial and the first to show that the only complete injectable long-acting regimen, cabotegravir + rilpivirine, can maintain virologic suppression in adolescents for nearly two years, with a clear preference for injections over daily pills.” This preference is a key factor in improving adherence, a persistent challenge in HIV management.
Further bolstering the positive outlook, additional pediatric data presented at CROI 2026 included IMPAACT 2036 (CRAYON), the first study to provide pharmacokinetic and safety data on long-acting cabotegravir + rilpivirine in children as young as two years vintage. While detailed results from the CRAYON study were not immediately available, the initiation of research into younger age groups signals a commitment to expanding access to this innovative treatment option.
Expanding Dosing Options and Patient Access
ViiV Healthcare, the global specialist HIV company majority owned by GSK, with Pfizer and Shionogi as shareholders, is also exploring the potential for even less frequent dosing schedules. According to marketscreener.com, the company is presenting pipeline data for two investigational HIV treatment therapies with the potential for twice-yearly dosing. This could further reduce the frequency of clinic visits and injections, offering even greater convenience for patients.
The availability and affordability of Cabenuva are also being addressed. ViiV Healthcare reports that, after coverage and assistance options, most people pay $0 per dose, with 9 out of 10 individuals paying less than $10 out-of-pocket. Access Coordinators are available to facilitate patients check their coverage and eligibility for savings programs. This focus on accessibility is crucial for ensuring that this innovative treatment reaches those who need it most. Cabenuva is also being recognized as an important alternative to daily pills, particularly for adolescents, as noted by The Pharma Letter.
Addressing Adherence Challenges
Beyond the convenience of less frequent dosing, research is ongoing to address the broader challenges of medication adherence. The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is leading a study to mitigate barriers to adherence in people living with HIV. UAB’s research aims to identify and overcome obstacles that prevent individuals from consistently taking their medication, ultimately improving treatment outcomes.
The development and continued study of Cabenuva and related therapies represent a significant advancement in HIV treatment. By offering more convenient and patient-preferred options, ViiV Healthcare and collaborating institutions are working to improve the lives of individuals living with HIV and move closer to the goal of ending the epidemic.
Looking ahead, ViiV Healthcare will continue to analyze data from ongoing trials, including the CRAYON study and work towards expanding access to these innovative treatments. The next key milestone will be the release of further data from the CRAYON study, providing insights into the safety and efficacy of Cabenuva in even younger children.
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