This annual shot might protect against HIV infections
1 min read
Summary
In 2022, a clinical trial found a injectable drug called lenacapavir was able to prevent HIV infections in 100% of the women and girls who received it.
This week, a small phase I trial found the drug continues to provides protection when injected just once a year.
Lenacapavir works by interfering with the virus’s ability to replicate and can be taken daily or yearly.
It can also stay in the blood for days or form a depot, gradually releasing the drug over time.
The drug is currently awaiting approval by the FDA, with plans for licensing agreements with generic drug manufacturers to provide cheaper options for low- and middle-income countries.
However, this is currently under threat due to the Trump administration’s executive order to pause foreign aid.