Efficacy

Apretude (cabotegravir extended-release injectable suspension)

Apretude is an extended-release injectable suspension used for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 infection in adults and adolescents weighing at least 35 kg who are at risk of HIV. Its efficacy is grounded in the results of two pivotal phase 3 trials, HPTN 083 and HPTN 084, which demonstrated a significant reduction in the incidence of HIV acquisition compared to daily oral emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (FTC/TDF). In HPTN 083, Apretude was shown to be 66% more effective in preventing HIV acquisition among men and transgender women who have sex with men, while HPTN 084 showed an 89% higher efficacy in preventing HIV in cisgender women compared to the oral FTC/TDF regimen.

Biktarvy (bictegravir, emtricitabine, tenofovir alafenamide)

Biktarvy is a once-daily, single-tablet regimen for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. It combines bictegravir, a novel integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI), with emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide, two well-established reverse transcriptase inhibitors. The efficacy of Biktarvy has been evaluated in several clinical trials, including studies 1489 and 1490 in treatment-naïve patients, and study 1844 in virologically suppressed patients switching from a stable antiretroviral regimen. In these studies, Biktarvy demonstrated high rates of virologic suppression and no cases of treatment-emergent resistance through 48 weeks, establishing its efficacy as a potent treatment option for individuals with HIV-1 infection.

Both Apretude and Biktarvy represent significant advancements in the management of HIV/AIDS. Apretude offers a long-acting option for HIV prevention, reducing the burden of daily pill-taking and potentially improving adherence and outcomes in individuals at high risk for HIV infection. On the other hand, Biktarvy provides a powerful and convenient treatment option for those living with HIV, with a high barrier to resistance and a favorable safety profile. The availability of these medications enhances the HIV prevention and treatment landscape, contributing to the global efforts to end the HIV epidemic.

It is important for patients and healthcare providers to consider individual patient needs, potential side effects, and other medications that the patient may be taking when choosing an HIV treatment or prevention strategy. Both Apretude and Biktarvy should be used as part of comprehensive HIV prevention or treatment programs that include safer sex practices, regular testing, and counseling when necessary.