Gilead Announces Full Effectiveness of Six-Year Subcutaneous Lenacapavir in HIV Prevention

Gilead presented results from the third phase of the Purpose 1 clinical trial, which assessed the effectiveness of a six-month injectable capsid inhibitor lenacapavir for HIV prevention in women. Studying demonstrated 100% effectivenesshowever, no infections were reported in the lenacapavir group, compared with 16 infections among 1,068 women (1.69%) in the Truvada (emtricitabine 200 mg/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg) daily group.

“With no infections and 100% efficacy, a six-month course of lenacapavir has proven effective. potential as the most important tool to prevent HIV infection,” said Mehrdad Parsi, chief medical officer of Gilead. The official also assured that they are waiting for more results from this study to “continue moving towards the goal of providing assistance.” ending the HIV epidemic for everyone, everywhere”.

The Purpose 1 study enrolled more than 5,300 women and adolescents at sites in South Africa and Uganda, comparing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with subcutaneous lenacapavir, Descovy (200 mg emtricitabine/25 mg tenofovir alafenamide) and Truvada.

The study did not identify any new safety concerns with lenacapavir. Its safety profile was consistent with previous studies. without observing serious side effects associated with treatment. The ease of six-month administration could revolutionize HIV prevention strategies by offering a practical and effective solution to reduce new infections. In this sense, Linda-Gail Becker from the Desmond Tutu HIV Center said that six-month administration “could be a decisive HIV prevention option” allowing avoid stigma possession and daily use of oral PrEP medications.

Gilead plans to expand its Purpose trial program, with additional results expected in 2025, thereby strengthening the regulatory approval of lenacapavir for diverse populations at risk of HIV infection.