US Panel Recommends Approval of Drug to avoid HIV

The recommendation by a U.S government-funded panel of doctors and scientists that healthy people must be capable of use an AIDS drug to forestall contracting the HIV virus has many advocates hoping the U.S. goal of an “AIDS-free generation” may very well be more within sight. The possibly life-saving effects of the prophylactic use of Truvada are within the spotlight.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration held a marathon 12-hour hearing Thursday to judge evidence that Truvada, a once-daily pill currently getting used to regard AIDS patients, also can be used to stop HIV infection in healthy individuals.

A panel of independent health workers voted overwhelmingly to back Truvada's use to avoid HIV and urged the FDA to approve the drug to be used by people who find themselves considered to be at a high risk for contracting the disease.

“Using Truvada or pre-exposure prophylaxis, to forestall acquiring HIV, for an HIV negative person is a game changer, and it's something that i feel is actually going to take us to the subsequent level," said Kali Lindsey, who's with the National Minority AIDS Council.


New drug provides hope

Some critics have said Truvada could give people a false sense of confidence and bring about a discounted use of condoms. But HIV educator Brad Miller believes approval of the drug will actually promote a dialogue on condom usage.

“They'll know more about their health and what they could do to give protection to their health, versus being told what to do about their health,” said Miller.

Lisa and her husband, Tracy, who's HIV positive, make up one of the vital estimated 140,000 couples within the U.S. with mis-matching HIV statuses.

“This woman cared more about me than what i used to be infected with. Since the average person around here once they hear it, would go running the other way," said Tracy.

Lisa chose to not cut ties, but instead to tie the knot [get married], and likewise to check out Truvada.

“I wish to remain healthy, in order that within the times of his need, that i am there to aid. So when PrEP came along I jumped on the idea," said Lisa.

Optimism among advocates, users

PrEP refers to pre-exposure prophylaxis, and Tracy is a robust supporter.

“PrEP helps, it does. i feel that's probably the most positive things they may have give you, besides their research of ways to combat the disease," said Tracy.

Currently wait-listed for an ordeal where she would receive free PrEP drugs, Lisa worries concerning the cost - as high as $1,500 per 30 days.

“I just hope that they approve the PrEP, in order that many others which are living within the situation that i am living in could have this resource available to them,” she said.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is not very required to follow the panel's recommendation on Truvada, but FDA officials concluded the high-profile session by saying more need to be done to avoid more HIV infections from occurring.

From WhatNewsToday.net

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