Kenya is set to introduce injectable antiretroviral (ARV) drugs for HIV treatment. This new method promises to revolutionize the way HIV is managed, offering a more convenient and effective alternative to daily oral pills
Injectable ARVs, such as Cabenuva, contain two drugs – cabotegravir and rilpivirine – that are administered as an injection either once every two months or once every six months.
These long-acting medications work by maintaining high levels of viral suppression, similar to daily oral pills
Clinical trials have shown that the injectable treatment is just as effective in suppressing HIV among adults in Africa.
One of the most significant advantages of injectable ARVs is the convenience they offer.
Instead of taking a pill every day, patients can receive an injection every two to six months.
This reduces the burden of daily medication adherence and the risk of missing doses, which is crucial for effective HIV management.
Another benefit is the potential for improved adherence and better health outcomes.
With fewer doses to remember, patients are less likely to miss their medication, leading to more consistent viral suppression and a lower risk of developing drug resistance.
The introduction of injectable ARVs follows successful clinical trials conducted across eight sites in Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa.
The trials involved 512 participants, including 162 women from Kenya, and demonstrated that the injectable treatment was non-inferior to daily oral pills in terms of efficacy.
However, some participants experienced adverse events, such as severe symptoms, which were slightly more frequent in the injectable group compared to the oral therapy group.
A major concern for many Kenyans is the cost of the new treatment.
The government has reassured the public that it is committed to ensuring the injectable ARVs remain affordable.
According to Dr. Ruth Marsha, CEO of the National Syndemic Disease Control Council (NSDCC), the price of the treatment is expected to stay within reach, with doses costing around Ksh1293 ($10) or Ksh1810 ($14)
The introduction of injectable ARVs marks a significant milestone in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Kenya.
With 1,378,457 Kenyans living with HIV/AIDS as of 2024, this new treatment offers hope for better management of the disease.
Additionally, ongoing research at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and the Walter Reed Project aims to develop an HIV vaccine, further advancing the country’s efforts to combat the epidemic.
By kenyans