Young women in Uganda who face a high risk of HIV infection could soon have another convenient prevention option if ongoing trials of a once-monthly PrEP pill, Alimatravir, are successful.
The tablet, developed by Merck Sharp & Dohme, is being tested in a large Phase III trial involving about 4,580 adolescent girls and young women in Uganda, Kenya and South Africa. In Uganda, five trial sites are led by the Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University collaboration in Mityana, with additional sites in Kampala, Masaka, the Uganda Virus Research Institute and Kalangala.
Dr Flavia Kiweewa Matovu, who leads the Ugandan study, said taking PrEP once a month could make it easier for users to stay protected by reducing missed doses and frequent clinic visits. The medicine reaches protective levels in about an hour and can be taken at home. It is a preventive treatment, not a vaccine or cure.
Earlier studies found Alimatravir to be well tolerated, while results from the current trial are expected within two years. If approved, it would add to Uganda’s existing HIV prevention options, including daily pills, the vaginal ring, condoms, injectable cabotegravir and Lenacapavir.
Quality Chemical Industries Limited in Kampala is among the companies being considered for future generic production. Early estimates suggest generic versions could cost $3 to $4.50 per person annually, potentially making the medicine more affordable than branded Lenacapavir.
Uganda records about 37,000 new HIV infections annually, with more than 1.4 million people living with HIV. Health officials and advocates say expanding affordable and practical prevention choices is essential, as different people need options that fit their lifestyles.
