Last week, Zimbabwe introduced Cabotegravir long-acting (CAB-LA), an injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) drug, as part of its HIV prevention efforts.
Zimbabwe Introduces HIV Prevention Drug
This drug, designed to suppress HIV infection as it occurs, targets HIV-negative individuals at high risk of contracting the virus. CAB-LA joins the dapivirine ring and oral PrEP as options in the country’s HIV prevention arsenal under the CATALYST study, aimed at expanding access to new prevention methods.
Dr Idah Moyo, a clinical officer in Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Health and Child Care, highlighted the availability of CAB-LA at 15 demonstration sites. She added that CAB-LA is a long-term injection for preventing HIV acquisition in high-risk individuals, with insights from these sites informing nationwide implementation.
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Healthcare providers at these sites are trained to empower clients with knowledge about PrEP options, enabling them to make informed choices based on their needs, preferences, and lifestyles. Notably, Zimbabwe became the first Sub-Saharan African country to approve CAB-LA in 2022, following the approval of the dapivirine ring in 2021.
Dr Moyo emphasised that CAB-LA complements existing prevention methods and should be used alongside measures like condom use, as it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy.
Government Reveals More Information
The Ministry of Health and Child Care has revealed more details on the new HIV prevention drug introduced in the country. Here is what you should know.
- CAB LA is adding to the existing basket of HIV prevention options; it increases choices.
- Clients are assisted in making informed choices according to their preferences and lifestyles.
- CAB-LA may be particularly suitable for clients seeking less frequent dosing. Injectable CAB – routinely injected intramuscularly every two months. As a long-acting injectable PrEP modality, adherence is enhanced as long as the client sticks to scheduled appointments and dosing frequency.
- It is a convenient and private modality, with reduced clinic visits and no challenges associated with pill burden.
- CAB LA can keep the use of HIV PrEP completely private (increased privacy around PrEP use).
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The post Zimbabwe Introduces HIV Prevention Drug: Ministry Of Health Reveals What You Need To Know appeared first on iHarare News.
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