Cabotegravir (long-acting injection) for prevention of HIV-1 infection

Cabotegravir is in clinical development as an alternative method of protecting an individual from contracting the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). HIV is a chronic life altering condition that requires, daily antiretroviral therapy (ART) as a regular treatment routine. If left unmanaged it can lead to serious complications, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Interventions that help prevent HIV acquisition are therefore imperative for those who are at greater risk. For example, men who have unprotected sex with men and heterosexual men and women who have unprotected sex with people that are HIV positive. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are ARTs which when taken regularly significantly reduce the risk of the transmission of HIV during unprotected sex. Currently, the only preventative treatment available is tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine tablets taken daily. Whilst these are highly effective at preventing HIV when taken as prescribed, they can cause adherence issues and therefore a long-acting form of PrEP medication is desirable.