Experts push for diverse HIV prevention options in Thailand
Access to diverse PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) options for HIV prevention is essential for meeting the varied needs of individuals, according to experts gathered at a recent forum.
Nittaya Phanuphak, the Institute of HIV Research and Innovation (IHRI) Executive Director, emphasised the necessity for a broader range of choices to enhance prevention efforts and accommodate the different lifestyles of people at risk of HIV.
Oral PrEP, while effective, presents challenges for some users who find daily dosing inconvenient, especially during work hours or with demanding schedules. Nittaya highlighted the importance of regular medical checkups, including blood status checks, for those prescribed PrEP.
However, the time constraints many face in visiting healthcare facilities contribute to inconsistent medication adherence, increasing their risk of HIV/Aids infection, revealed Nittaya.
“The options in HIV prevention we have today are limited. Thailand should provide more diversified PrEP options to meet people’s lifestyles and their needs, such as investing in injectable PrEPs or exploring other HIV prevention options like intravaginal rings for women.”
She urged policymakers and funders to support the diversification of PrEP options, ensuring they are accessible and affordable for everyone. The forum, titled Community Forum: From Options to Choice, was organised by Nittaya’s office to discuss how to make HIV/Aids prevention more inclusive across Thailand.
Despite the national rollout of PrEP since 2015, goals for increasing the number of people taking PrEP pills have not been met, and alternative options remain scarce. Currently, only daily oral PrEP is available in Thailand’s healthcare system.
Long-acting injectable PrEPs, like Cabotegravir and Lenacapavir, which offer greater convenience and efficacy, are yet to be included.
Rachaneekorn Jevprasesphant, director of supplies and products at the Government Pharmaceutical Organisation (GPO), explained the complex process of introducing new medications. It involves licensing, pricing, sourcing ingredients, formula development, research, and drug registration, which could take up to three years for local production.
IHRI project manager Rina Chan-amnuaysuk underscored the significance of offering various PrEP options to ensure safety during sexual activity. She noted that Thailand aimed to have 144,054 PrEP users by 2022, but only 31,790 people had taken PrEP by that time, reported Bangkok Post.
