These treatments are designed to maintain HIV viral suppression by preventing the virus from multiplying. They do not eliminate HIV from the body, and patients must continue receiving treatment according to their prescribed schedules.
One established option is the combination of cabotegravir and rilpivirine, marketed as Cabenuva. It is administered by healthcare professionals and is available in monthly or every two month dosing schedules, depending on the prescribed treatment plan.
Another option is long acting cabotegravir combined with rilpivirine for individuals who meet specific clinical requirements.
Important considerations when understanding these treatments include:
Treatment eligibility: Patients generally need to have achieved viral suppression on an appropriate HIV treatment regimen before switching to injectable cabotegravir and rilpivirine.
Medication resistance: Healthcare professionals review previous treatment history and resistance information before recommending injectable therapy.
Administration schedules: Injections must be received according to the recommended schedule to maintain adequate medication levels.
Clinical assessment: Existing medical conditions, other medications, and potential interactions are considered before treatment begins.
Treatment expectations: Patients should understand that long acting medication controls HIV but does not cure the infection.
Patient care plays an important role in the safe and effective use of long acting HIV medication. Before starting treatment, healthcare professionals evaluate viral load, previous antiretroviral medications, treatment response, and medical history.
Patients also receive information about injection procedures, appointment schedules, possible side effects, and what to do if an appointment is missed.
Regular monitoring helps healthcare professionals assess treatment effectiveness and identify potential complications. HIV viral load testing is particularly important because it indicates whether the medication is continuing to control viral replication.
Common patient care considerations include:
Regular appointments: Patients should attend scheduled injection visits and follow the prescribed administration intervals.
Side effect monitoring: Injection site pain, swelling, headaches, and fever may occur. Persistent or severe symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Viral load testing: Periodic laboratory testing helps assess whether HIV remains suppressed.
Medication reviews: Healthcare professionals should review prescription medicines, over the counter products, and supplements for possible interactions.
Missed injection management: Patients should contact their treatment provider immediately if they cannot attend an appointment. Oral bridging medication may be recommended in certain circumstances.
Ongoing support: Counselling and treatment education can help individuals understand their options and maintain consistent care.
Long acting HIV treatment requires careful planning because medication levels can decline if injections are delayed. Healthcare professionals may recommend an alternative oral antiretroviral regimen when injectable treatment is discontinued or interrupted.
Patient preferences, lifestyle requirements, medical history, and treatment availability should all be considered when evaluating whether long acting therapy is appropriate. Open communication between patients and healthcare teams supports informed treatment decisions and continuity of HIV care.