Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is still considered a major global public health issue by the World Health Organization. Causing about 35 million people deaths worldwide, a lot of experts across the globe are helping hand in hand to end this problem.
After several studies, trials, and experiments, experts have once again discovered something that could ease the suffering of patients living with HIV. What they've found out is a better alternative to daily pills, which patients use to control the virus that causes AIDS-a monthly shot of these HIV drugs, Medicine Net reports.
These HIV drugs is a great help to HIV patients. With the use of these drugs, the patients' body becomes stronger and less vulnerable to infection and diseases, which could lead to AIDS.
Furthermore, by religiously taking HIV drugs, the virus' rate tends to become so low that the virus becomes almost impossible to transmit to sex partners anymore. Its effectiveness can even be compared to that of condoms.
Too bad not all people are taking their drugs consistently, according to experts. The reason behind it is how a hassle it is to take these daily medications sometimes.
This is why researchers were very glad to see how successful the international tests are. This could pave the way for a better substitute for HIV patients who wants to have a healthier life but usually forgets to take their medications.
"Some people will be thrilled" of how convenient these injectable can be, said Mitchell Warren. Warren is the Executive Director of AVAC, an AIDS advocacy group.
This monthly medication is a "long-acting combo of two HIV drugs." These drugs are rilpivirine and cabotegravir.
The costs of these HIV monthly shots are still yet to be revealed, according to Dr. Hyman Scott of the San Francisco Department of Public Health. But experts are already expecting it to be a little pricey as compared to other HIV medications.
At present, HIV medications already cost thousands of dollars monthly. The total cost depends on the doctor's prescription, the drug combination, the situation of the patient's body, the insurance coverage, discounts, and rebates, as reported by TIME.
There is only but one thing that experts are concerned about, and that is the possibility that patients still forget their monthly shots. This could be brought forth worse effects as it could produce drug-resistant strains of the virus, which are more difficult and expensive to treat.
Meanwhile, the newly produced drug is still waiting for approval. The companies behind the production are hoping their plea will be granted before this year ends.
