There are daily pills to prevent HIV — but injectable options could change what prevention looks like
The fight against HIV is constantly evolving, with new advancements in treatment and prevention giving hope to those at risk. One significant development is the approval of a long-acting injectable drug for PrEP, cabotegravir, under the brand name Apretude. This medication, administered every two months through intramuscular injections, offers a convenient alternative to daily pills for individuals like Tim Lagman, a sexual health educator who has been taking oral PrEP since 2017.
Quebec has taken a pioneering step by covering the costs of injectable Apretude under its public prescription drug insurance plan, making it more accessible to those in need. Dr. Réjean Thomas, a leading figure in the fight against HIV and AIDS, views this coverage as a significant milestone in the battle against the disease. The availability of injectable PrEP could be a game-changer for patients who struggle with daily pill regimens, offering them a more convenient and effective option for HIV prevention.
The rise in new HIV infections in Canada, as reported by the Public Health Agency, signals a need for innovative strategies to reach at-risk populations and provide them with necessary screening and prevention tools. Dr. Cécile Tremblay, an infectious disease specialist, emphasizes the importance of increasing access to testing and treatment to curb the spread of the virus. Making treatments like PrEP free of charge is a crucial next step, as currently, Quebec is the only province to publicly reimburse for injectable Apretude.
Dr. Darrel Tan, a clinician scientist at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, underscores the importance of offering diverse options for HIV prevention to cater to individual needs and circumstances. With ongoing advancements in treatment and prevention drugs, such as lenacapavir, which may require injections just twice a year, the future looks promising for those living with or at risk of HIV.
Despite these advancements, barriers to HIV screening, prevention, and treatment persist in Canada and globally. Ken Monteith, executive director of Quebec’s network of AIDS organizations, emphasizes the importance of advocacy and activism in pushing the boundaries of science and ensuring that individuals have access to a range of treatment options that align with their lifestyle.
While science has provided the tools to combat HIV, challenges remain in ensuring widespread access to these resources. Political support and funding are crucial in delivering essential services and expanding awareness about HIV prevention and treatment methods. By addressing these barriers and working together, we can move closer to achieving the United Nations’ goal of ending AIDS by 2030.
