New Data Show Potential for Twice-Yearly Dosing, Enhancing Treatment Options for HIV Patients
Why is the current landscape of HIV treatment ripe for innovation? ViiV Healthcare, a global specialist HIV company majority owned by GSK, with Pfizer and Shionogi as shareholders, is leading the charge with groundbreaking long-acting formulations. The company recently announced data from phase 1 studies of VH184 and VH499, both showing potential for ultra long-acting (ULA) dosing intervals. These advancements could significantly reduce the frequency of treatment, addressing a critical need for people living with HIV.
In a significant step forward, ViiV Healthcare has unveiled promising data from its phase 1 studies of VH184 and VH499, two investigational long-acting HIV treatments. The results, presented at the 33rd Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI 2026) in Denver, Colorado, indicate that these treatments could offer dosing intervals of up to six months, potentially revolutionizing HIV care. Kimberly Smith, M.D., MPH, Head of Research & Development at ViiV Healthcare, emphasized the company’s commitment to “delivering best-in-class, long-acting therapies that challenge the status quo and help make HIV treatment a smaller, less frequent part of people’s lives.”
Key Insights at a Glance
- VH184: Single-dose injection maintains drug levels for up to six months.
- Enhanced Resistance: Improved potency and resistance profile versus bictegravir.
- VH499: Generally well-tolerated, supports potential for ultra long-acting dosing.
- ULA Pipeline: Reinforces ViiV Healthcare’s commitment to innovative HIV therapies.
The Burden of Daily Treatment on HIV Patients
HIV treatment has long been a daily regimen, imposing a significant burden on patients. The need for frequent dosing can lead to adherence issues, which in turn can compromise treatment effectiveness and patient well-being. ViiV Healthcare’s focus on long-acting treatments addresses this critical challenge by reducing the frequency of medication, thereby improving patient quality of life. This shift is not just a medical advancement but a significant step towards more humane and effective HIV care.
The Regulatory Clock Is Already Running for HIV Innovators
Just as a marathon runner must pace themselves for the long haul, ViiV Healthcare is methodically advancing its ULA pipeline. The company’s early-stage findings for VH184 and VH499 are crucial stepping stones in the race to develop more convenient and effective HIV treatments. These data will inform future phase 2b studies, ensuring that the company stays on track to introduce the first INSTI-based, twice-yearly regimen for people with HIV. The regulatory landscape is complex, but ViiV Healthcare’s strategic approach positions it well to navigate these challenges.
ViiV Healthcare Advances Long-Acting HIV Therapies
ViiV Healthcare is making significant strides in the development of long-acting HIV treatments. The phase 1 study of VH184, a third-generation integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI), demonstrated that a single subcutaneous or intramuscular injection could maintain drug levels for up to six months. This long-acting property is supported by an enhanced resistance profile, showing improved activity against resistant HIV strains compared to bictegravir. Additionally, VH499, an investigational capsid inhibitor, was generally well-tolerated and showed potential for dosing intervals of up to six months. These findings reinforce ViiV Healthcare’s commitment to advancing innovative long-acting HIV therapies that reduce the need for daily treatment and expand options for people living with HIV.
Future Outlook
The future of HIV treatment is poised to be transformed by ultra long-acting options. ViiV Healthcare’s continued progress with VH184 and VH499, along with other ULA pipeline assets like lotivibart (N6LS), underscores the company’s dedication to redefining HIV care. As phase 2b studies and further clinical trials advance, the potential for twice-yearly dosing regimens becomes increasingly tangible. The next milestone will be the presentation of additional data at future conferences, which will provide further insights into the efficacy and safety of these promising treatments.
Conclusion
ViiV Healthcare’s advancements in long-acting HIV treatments represent a significant leap forward in the field. By reducing the frequency of treatment, these innovations have the potential to improve patient adherence and quality of life. For healthcare providers and patients alike, the question is: How will your practice adapt to these new treatment options? Join the conversation in the comments below.
About ViiV Healthcare
ViiV Healthcare is a global specialist HIV company established in November 2009 by GSK (LSE: GSK) and Pfizer dedicated to delivering advances in treatment and care for people living with HIV and for people who could benefit from HIV prevention. Shionogi became a ViiV shareholder in October 2012. The company’s aims are to take a deeper and broader interest in HIV and AIDS than any company has done before and take a new approach to deliver effective and innovative medicines for HIV treatment and prevention, as well as support communities affected by HIV.
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