Cabenuva is a prescription medication used in the treatment of HIV-1 infection. It is a unique and innovative treatment option that provides a long-acting, injectable regimen for individuals living with HIV-1. Cabenuva combines two active ingredients: cabotegravir and rilpivirine, which are both antiretroviral drugs. This combination therapy offers a convenient and effective way to manage HIV-1 infection. Here is a detailed description of Cabenuva:

Drug Class:

1. Cabotegravir: Cabotegravir belongs to the class of medications known as integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs). It works by inhibiting the action of the HIV integrase enzyme, which is essential for the virus to integrate its genetic material into the host cell’s DNA. By blocking this step, cabotegravir prevents the virus from replicating and spreading in the body.
2. Rilpivirine: Rilpivirine is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI). It works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is necessary for HIV to convert its RNA into DNA. By interfering with this process, rilpivirine helps prevent the virus from reproducing.

Indications:

Cabenuva is indicated as a complete regimen for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults who are virologically stable (have an undetectable viral load) and on a stable antiretroviral regimen without any history of treatment failure or resistance to the individual components, cabotegravir and rilpivirine.

Dosage and Administration:

Cabenuva is administered as a long-acting injectable medication. It is typically given as two separate intramuscular injections: one injection of cabotegravir and one injection of rilpivirine, once a month. The injections are usually administered by a healthcare provider in a clinical setting.

Effectiveness:

Clinical trials have shown that Cabenuva is effective in maintaining viral suppression in HIV-1 infected individuals who have already achieved virologic control with other antiretroviral regimens. It offers the convenience of monthly injections compared to daily oral medications.

Side Effects:

Common side effects of Cabenuva may include injection site reactions, fever, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, and nausea. As with any medication, individuals should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any side effects, particularly if they are severe or persistent.

Contraindications:

Cabenuva is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to cabotegravir or rilpivirine. It is also not recommended for use in individuals with HIV-1 strains that have specific resistance mutations to either of the two components.

Consultation with a Healthcare Provider:

The decision to start Cabenuva therapy should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who can assess the patient’s specific medical condition, previous treatment history, and the suitability of this long-acting injectable regimen. Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential to ensure the effectiveness of treatment and to address any potential side effects or concerns.

Cabenuva represents an important treatment option for individuals living with HIV-1 infection, offering an alternative to daily oral medications and the convenience of monthly injections. Its use should always be under the guidance and supervision of qualified healthcare professionals experienced in the management of HIV.