Lenacapavir for PrEP
(PURPOSE 365 Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new treatment called lenacapavir, administered as an annual injection, to determine its safety and effectiveness in preventing HIV. The study aims to understand how the body absorbs, processes, and eliminates this medication. Individuals who have engaged in receptive anal or vaginal sex in the last six months, particularly those who have had condomless sex with partners who might have HIV, may be suitable for this trial. Participants will receive a high-dose lenacapavir injection and may take pills if the injection is unavailable. This study is crucial for developing better long-term HIV protection. As a Phase 3 trial, it represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants the opportunity to contribute to a potentially groundbreaking HIV prevention method.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify if 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 lenacapavir is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that lenacapavir (LEN) is a safe option for preventing HIV. Studies have found that people using lenacapavir for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) tolerate it well, with few serious side effects reported. The FDA approved LEN as an injection every six months to prevent HIV, based on strong safety data from two clinical trials. This approval indicates that the treatment is generally safe for most people. However, discussing possible side effects with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment is always important.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Researchers are excited about lenacapavir for PrEP because it offers a novel approach to HIV prevention. Unlike the standard of care, which typically involves daily oral pills like Truvada or Descovy, lenacapavir is administered as a long-acting injection that can potentially be given every six months. This delivery method could significantly improve adherence by reducing the frequency of dosing. Additionally, lenacapavir works as a capsid inhibitor, which is a new mechanism of action compared to existing PrEP medications, potentially offering more robust protection against HIV.
What evidence suggests that lenacapavir might be an effective treatment for HIV PrEP?
Research has shown that lenacapavir (LEN) is highly effective in preventing HIV. Studies found that LEN reduced the risk of HIV infection by 100% in women and 96% in a mostly male group. It is the first treatment to show no infections in some large studies. LEN works by blocking a crucial step in the virus's process, preventing it from spreading. The treatment is taken less frequently, making it a convenient choice for many. Overall, lenacapavir has shown strong promise in preventing HIV. Participants in this trial will receive LEN as part of the study's experimental treatment arms, either during the main study period or the extension phase.12346
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 people at risk of HIV who've had unprotected sex or a recent STD. They must be HIV-negative, over 16 years old, and not have severe liver issues or past participation in certain HIV studies. Those with recent use of oral or subcutaneous Lenacapavir are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive LEN 3000 mg injection once on Day 1 and oral LEN 600 mg on Day 1 and Day 2
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Extension
Participants receive LEN 3000 mg injection once approximately one year after their initial dose
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Lenacapavir
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