Abbott publishes positive trial data for new HIV regimen

Abbott has published new clinical trial data which supports the efficacy of a new combination HIV therapy involving its drug Kaletra.

According to data from the recent Progress study, use of Kaletra in combination with the Merck Sharpe and Dohme drug Isentress demonstrated a similar level of efficacy to a standard HIV regimen of Kaletra plus Truvada.

This was measured in terms of the number of previously untreated patients attaining an undetectable viral load level over the course of 48 weeks.

Dr Scott Brun, divisional vice-president for infectious disease development and global pharmaceutical research and development at Abbott, said combining Kaletra with a variety of treatments is key to discovering new therapy options.

He added: “The Progress study is another step toward understanding the science behind potential new treatment approaches to help people living with HIV and demonstrates Abbott’s continued commitment to HIV research.”

Last month, Abbott announced that it is to work together with Neurocrine Biosciences on the development of a new treatment for endometriosis-related pain.