Lenacapavir PrEP Is Safe and Effective During Pregnancy
A clinical trial analysis indicates that the long-acting HIV prevention drug lenacapavir is safe and effective for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The findings suggest this twice-yearly injection is a viable option for high-risk populations globally.
Why it matters
Expanding safe HIV prevention options for pregnant women is critical to reducing vertical transmission and improving maternal health outcomes.
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No pregnant or breastfeeding women on twice-yearly lenacapavir acquired HIV, and adverse pregnancy outcomes did not differ significantly from expected rates.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women can safely use twice-yearly lenacapavir pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), according to an analysis from the PURPOSE 1 trial published in The Lancet HIV . These findings offer reassurance that this new prevention tool is a feasible option for a population at high risk for HIV worldwide.
"Pregnant and postpartum women face increased biological and social vulnerability to HIV acquisition," study authors Linda-Gail Bekker, MBChB, PhD, of the Desmond Tutu HIV Centre at the University of Cape Town, and colleagues wrote. "Acute HIV infection during pregnancy or breastfeeding substantially raises the risk of vertical transmission, underscoring the need for safe and effective HIV prevention options during these periods. "
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