Novel Approaches to Postnatal Prophylaxis to Eliminate Vertical Transmission of HIV
Theodore Ruel, Martina Penazzato, Jennifer M. Zech, Moherndran Archary, Tim R. Cressey, Ameena Goga, Joseph I. Harwell, Raphael J. Landovitz, Maria Grazia Lain, Marc Lallemant, Eleanor Namusoke-Magongo, Irene Mukui, Sallie R. Permar, Andrew J. Prendergast, Roger Shapiro, Elaine J. Abrams
Abstract
<h3>Key Messages</h3> Postnatal prophylaxis continues to play an essential role in efforts to eliminate new pediatric HIV infections and maximize HIV-free survival. New approaches to postnatal prophylaxis using currently available modern oral antiretroviral drugs could surmount many current barriers. Long-acting agents and delivery platforms currently in development for treating people living with HIV have great potential as postnatal prophylaxis for infants. Studies of novel postnatal prophylactic agents are possible and imperative in the near future and must be prioritized early in the antiretroviral drug development pipeline. Close collaboration between researchers, community representatives, industry, regulators, and policymakers will be the critical ingredient to ensure HIV-free survival for all infants with HIV exposure.