A Roadmap for Faster, Cheaper Long-Acting HIV Drugs
A recent international workshop report outlines a strategic plan to accelerate the development and regulatory approval of affordable, generic long-acting antiretroviral (LA ARV) drugs. The initiative, led by experts from the Long-Acting/Extended-Release Antiretroviral Resource Program (LEAP) and the Centre of Excellence for Long-acting Therapeutics (CELT), focuses on overcoming key barriers in pharmacology and drug development. The roadmap emphasizes novel pharmacokinetic endpoints to shorten study durations, the development of robust in vitro–in vivo correlation strategies for long-acting injectables, and the use of model-integrated evidence to streamline bioequivalence assessments. The goal is to enhance global access to these critical therapies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, by addressing formulation complexities, manufacturing scalability, and regulatory efficiencies.
Why it might matter to you: This report directly addresses core pharmacological challenges in drug delivery, pharmacokinetics, and bioequivalence that are central to developing next-generation therapeutics. For professionals focused on clinical trials and translational medicine, it highlights evolving regulatory and methodological frameworks that could reshape development pathways for complex drug formulations. The focus on accelerating generic versions of long-acting agents presents a critical case study in balancing innovation, accessibility, and pharmacoeconomics in global health.
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