There’s a new drug coming to market that should prevent — yes PREVENT HIV infections from ever taking root, which will save a lot of lives.
The daily pill Truvada won the endorsement of a panel of federal advisers Thursday, clearing the way for a landmark approval in the 30-year fight against the virus that causes AIDS.
Last week, the Food and Drug Administration advisory panel recommended approval of Truvada for healthy people who are at high risk of contracting HIV, including gay and bisexual men and heterosexual couples with one HIV+ partner. This is a huge step in fighting the deadly disease and a huge win for those who have been pressing for a broader battle. Previously, scientists have been focused on what to do once someone has already been infected with HIV. But now, scientists believe they may actually be able to stop it from ever becoming an infection all together!
A 3-year study found that daily doses cut the risk of infection in healthy gay and bisexual men by 42%, when accompanied by condoms and counseling. Last year another study found that Truvada reduced infection by 75% in heterosexual couples in which one partner was infected with HIV and the other was not.
Because Truvada is on the market to manage HIV, some doctors already prescribe it as a preventive measure. FDA approval would allow Gilead Sciences (the makers of Truvada) to formally market its drug for that use.
The FDA is not required to follow the panel’s advice, though it usually does. A final decision is expected by June 15th.
Simply put, THIS is wonderful news!!!I first read about Truvada about 1 yr ago while doing research to better educate myself about HIV and AIDS. My interest was prompted by the disclosure of a dear friend of mine that she had been diagnosed as HIV+ several years ago but had held off sharing that info with me for fear of rejection.A few years ago it was revealed to me that a very dear cousin (a male) had been diagnosed as HIV+. He too had chose NOT to tell me fearing rejection. I can't even begin to guess as to how many people out there are living with the *secret* fearing rejection from family members and close friends…smh. What an awful burden to carry. Anyway, I was under the impression that approval of the drug wouldn't happen until about mid 2013.As someone who is very aware of the impact HIV and AIDS can have on a person's life, I couldn't be happier hearing about this major achievment.