Lenacapavir + F/TDF for HIV Prevention
(PURPOSE 3 Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how lenacapavir functions in the body and assesses its safety when combined with F/TDF (a combination of the antiretroviral drugs Emtricitabine and Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate) to prevent HIV in cisgender women in the U.S. Participants will either receive lenacapavir through injections and pills or take F/TDF pills daily to compare these treatments. The trial seeks cisgender women who have had condomless sex with a cisgender man in the past year and meet other lifestyle criteria, such as having multiple partners or a history of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that lenacapavir (LEN) has been tested in people with HIV without raising major safety concerns. In one study, only 1.2% of participants taking LEN reported problems, a notably low rate. The FDA has approved LEN for preventing HIV in some cases, although it remains under study for this purpose.
Emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (F/TDF) already has FDA approval for preventing HIV. It is generally safe and well-tolerated, with mild side effects like nausea or headaches occurring infrequently.
Overall, current studies indicate that both LEN and F/TDF are safe for use in preventing HIV.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about Lenacapavir for HIV prevention because it offers a new way to protect against the virus. Unlike the standard daily oral pills like Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (F/TDF), Lenacapavir is administered via subcutaneous injections every six months, potentially improving adherence for those who find daily dosing challenging. Additionally, Lenacapavir works by targeting a different part of the virus, offering a novel mechanism of action that could enhance its effectiveness and help those who might not respond well to current treatments. This unique delivery method and mechanism make Lenacapavir a promising option in the fight against HIV.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for HIV prevention?
Research has shown that lenacapavir, which participants in this trial may receive, effectively prevents HIV. Studies have found it can reduce the risk of contracting HIV by up to 96% compared to usual rates. Administered every six months, this long-lasting treatment may help individuals adhere to their prevention plan. Meanwhile, emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (F/TDF), another treatment option in this trial, can lower the risk of HIV by almost 90% when taken regularly. Both treatments offer promising methods for HIV prevention.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Gilead Study Director
Principal Investigator
Gilead Sciences
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for US cisgender women at high risk of HIV, including those who've exchanged sex for commodities, had condomless sex with a man in the past year, used noninjection drugs recreationally, or have multiple male sexual partners. Women must test negative for HIV and hepatitis B to join.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Randomized Phase
Participants receive either subcutaneous lenacapavir or oral F/TDF for 52 weeks
PK Tail Phase
Participants transition to or continue receiving F/TDF for 78 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (F/TDF)
- Lenacapavir
Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (F/TDF) is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV-1 infection
- Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV-1 infection
- Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV-1 infection
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Gilead Sciences
Lead Sponsor
Daniel O'Day
Gilead Sciences
Chief Executive Officer since 2019
MBA from Columbia University
Dietmar Berger
Gilead Sciences
Chief Medical Officer
MD and PhD from Albert-Ludwigs University School of Medicine
HIV Prevention Trials Network
Collaborator