Antiretroviral Medications May Prevent HIV Infection

The results of two studies released on July 13 show that taking antiretroviral medications may provide uninfected individuals with protection against HIV.

The first study called Partners Prep took place in Kenya and Uganda. Researchers in this study found that participants who took an antiretroviral drug called Truvada were 73 percent less likely to contract HIV.

The study, previously scheduled to end in 2012 or 2013, was ended early because of its huge success. The participants that received a placebo were immediately given the drug. 
The Partners Prep study was conducted in order to find a solution to the increasing AIDS epidemic in Africa. The development of an AIDS vaccine may be as many as 10 years in the future, perhaps even more.

The Partners Prep study provides an additional means of protection for uninfected individuals, especially for the most vulnerable group, women. In some cultures women do not have social power over sex or the power to negotiate the use of condoms. 

The second study was conducted by the Centers for Disease Control in Botswana. Researchers found that there was a 63 percent decrease in the infection rate of sexually active participants.
The results of these studies are promising and may prove to be yet another weapon against HIV. Researchers must now conduct studies to identify any toxicities that may be associated with the long-term use of Truvada and the use of Truvada by pregnant women.

Source: nytimes.com
Photo: depts.washington.edu