Impact of long-acting therapies on the global HIV epidemic

AIDS. 2021 Dec 15;35(Suppl 2):S137-S143. doi: 10.1097/QAD.0000000000003102.

Abstract

Long-acting antiretroviral drugs have emerged as exciting treatment and preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) options for people with HIV and at risk of HIV. Long-acting regimens may improve dosing convenience, tolerability and cost compared with current daily-based oral therapy. They can also circumvent stigma associated with oral therapy for both treatment and PrEP, thereby improving adherence and outcomes. Yet, multiple challenges remain, many specific to low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs), where the epidemic is most concentrated and HIV prevention and treatment options are limited. To optimize the use of long-acting formulations, key outstanding questions must be addressed. Uncertain costing, scale-up manufacturing, complex delivery systems and implementation challenges are potential barriers when considering the scalability of long-acting ARVs for global use.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Anti-HIV Agents*
  • Epidemics* / prevention & control
  • HIV Infections* / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections* / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis*
  • Social Stigma

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents