HIV Awareness Month: December and the Importance of Prevention and Treatment

December is a significant month for HIV awareness, marked by World AIDS Day on December 1st. This day is dedicated to honoring those who have lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses and raising awareness about HIV prevention and treatment. It’s a time for communities to come together, share experiences, and commit to the ongoing fight against HIV.

Understanding PrEP: Apretude

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventive measure for people who are at high risk of HIV infection. Apretude (cabotegravir) is a long-acting injectable form of PrEP. Unlike daily oral PrEP, Apretude is administered as an intramuscular injection every two months after an initial two-month initiation phase. This method offers a convenient alternative for those who may struggle with adherence to daily medication.

Apretude is specifically designed for HIV-negative adults and adolescents who weigh at least 77 pounds (35 kg). It’s crucial to note that Apretude does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so practicing safer sex is still recommended.

HIV Treatment: Cabenuva

Cabenuva (cabotegravir and rilpivirine) is a combination antiretroviral medication used for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults who have already been diagnosed with HIV. Unlike Apretude, which is used for prevention, Cabenuva is used for ongoing treatment to manage the virus and maintain viral suppression.

Cabenuva is given as an IM injection with the option to start with an oral lead in and is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes regular monitoring and adherence to the prescribed regimen. It’s important for individuals on Cabenuva to continue their treatment as directed by their healthcare provider to ensure the effectiveness of the medication and to prevent the development of drug resistance.

Distinguishing Between PrEP and HIV Treatment

While both Apretude and Cabenuva contain cabotegravir, their indications and purposes are different. Apretude is used as a preventive measure for HIV-negative individuals at high risk of infection, administered as an injectable every two months. Cabenuva, on the other hand, is used as a treatment for HIV-positive individuals to manage and suppress the virus, taken intramuscularly as part of a monthly or bi monthly regimen. While some patients choose to initiate treatment with oral Cabenuva, others may opt to start directly with the IM injection options.

Conclusion

December’s HIV Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of both prevention and treatment in the fight against HIV. By understanding and utilizing options like Apretude for PrEP and Cabenuva for treatment, we can continue to make strides in reducing the spread of HIV and supporting those living with the virus. Sage Infusion continues to expand options for our patients by adding the ability to service medications including Apretude and Cabenuva. We administer several medications across specialties and diagnoses to help close to 2,000 patients per month. Our team keeps a pulse on new to market drugs, and are committed to administering treatments that give our patients and their loved ones more good days together. Sage Infusion offers patient-centered infusion care in a contemporary boutique environment by nurse practitioners who follow the National Infusion Center Association guidelines and our proprietary clinical protocols. Sage Infusion eases patient’s medical burdens by handling the care coordination process, including insurance authorization. Sage Infusion offers flexible scheduling, a variety of comforting amenities, and patients can choose to receive treatment in the open lounge or private room.