Feb 21, 2024,06:21am EST
British pharmaceutical giant GSK unveiled promising results on Wednesday for a long-acting injectable HIV therapy, providing a hopeful alternative for individuals reliant on daily pills to combat the virus’s progression.
Key Facts:
- GSK reported that its long-acting injectable HIV drug, Cabenuva, demonstrated superior efficacy compared to daily pills for certain patients, as per interim findings from a late-stage clinical trial.
- Developed by the HIV-focused joint venture ViiV Healthcare, which is majority-owned by GSK, the therapy became the first and only long-acting injectable HIV treatment approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2021. However, uptake in the U.S. and internationally has faced obstacles due to issues surrounding eligibility and the necessity for regular healthcare appointments and specialists for injections.
- Data from an ongoing study across 31 sites in the U.S., including Puerto Rico, supported by the National Institutes of Health, showcased the injectable drug’s promise compared to oral medication. This was particularly beneficial for patients struggling with adherence to the daily pill regimen, according to the company.
- ViiV’s Head of Research and Development, Kimberly Smith, hailed the outcome as remarkable, emphasizing the importance of enhancing therapy for all individuals living with HIV to combat the epidemic effectively.
- An independent review body monitoring the trial recommended offering the injectable drug to all participants, given the promising results. Cabenuva is administered as two shots once a month.
- Full trial data comparing the injectable to the standard regimen of oral antiretroviral medication will be presented at an upcoming scientific conference, GSK announced.
Who Can Access the Long-Acting Injectable HIV Medication?
- Cabenuva contains two antiviral drugs, cabotegravir and rilpivirine, in an extended-release formulation. These drugs do not cure HIV but help prevent transmission, slow disease progression, and potentially boost the immune system by suppressing viral replication.
- Trials are underway to explore changes in Cabenuva’s administration, including the development of a self-injectable treatment for home use by patients.
Key Background:
- While daily antiviral pills effectively treat HIV, some individuals struggle with adherence or consistent access to treatment. Developing long-acting HIV treatments has become a focal point in managing the virus.
- GSK, along with other pharmaceutical firms, is venturing into the long-acting drug space for HIV treatment to mitigate the potential revenue loss from the patent expiration of dolutegravir, ViiV’s oral treatment. HIV sales have significantly contributed to revenue, prompting GSK to explore alternatives to maintain its market position