Gilead Sciences has terminated a Phase 2/3 clinical trial of two long-acting HIV pills after placing the study on hold due to safety concerns. The California-based pharmaceutical company, one of the few major drugmakers active in HIV treatment development, made the decision to end the trial rather than continue.
The termination represents a setback for efforts to develop more convenient HIV treatment options. Long-acting formulations could potentially improve patient adherence by reducing dosing frequency compared to current daily pill regimens. Gilead has been a dominant player in the HIV treatment market for years.