CROI Conference Highlights Promise of Yearly HIV Prevention Injection

Recent advancements in HIV prevention highlight the potential of long-acting injectable therapies. Quebec has become the first province to cover the new injectable PrEP medication, cabotegravir (Apretude), which is administered every two months and could significantly ease the burden on individuals at risk of HIV. Additionally, research presented at the recent Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) indicates that a new formulation of the drug lenacapavir could provide protection against HIV for up to a year, with further studies expected to confirm its efficacy. However, concerns persist regarding funding cuts to HIV prevention programs, particularly those linked to PEPFAR, which could lead to increased infection rates if not addressed. Experts emphasize the urgent need for sustained investment in HIV prevention to meet global targets set by the United Nations. The ongoing development of these long-acting treatments marks an important shift in the fight against HIV/AIDS.