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HIV Injections Outperform Pills in Teens
21 Sep
Summary
- Eight-weekly HIV injections were more effective than daily pills.
- Only 1% of adolescents on injections had viral rebound vs. 6% on tablets.
- Adolescents found injections easier and preferred them over daily pills.
A significant clinical trial in Africa has demonstrated the superior efficacy of long-acting HIV injections over daily antiretroviral tablets for adolescents. The LATA trial, involving 476 participants aged 12-19 across Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, found that just 1% of those receiving eight-weekly injections experienced viral rebound, compared to 6% on daily pills after 96 weeks.
Adolescents in the trial overwhelmingly preferred the injectable treatment, with 94% finding it much easier than daily medication. Researchers highlight that this approach can combat stigma and bullying often faced by young people with HIV, promoting a more normal life. The findings suggest a strong case for wider accessibility of this treatment in low- and middle-income countries, where nine out of ten adolescents with HIV reside.
Despite its proven benefits, the availability of these long-acting injections in Africa is severely limited due to higher costs, patent restrictions, and the need for refrigerated storage and trained staff. This disparity risks widening inequalities in HIV care, as the treatment is available in high-income settings. Expanding access requires addressing these economic and logistical challenges to ensure equitable care for adolescents living with HIV.
