Gilead drug has potential against HIV

This ongoing phase II study is designed to evaluate the non-inferiority of Gilead’s once-daily drug GS 9137, versus boosted comparator protease inhibitors. GS 9137 is an integrase inhibitor that interferes with HIV replication by blocking the ability of the virus to integrate into the genetic material of human cells.

Gilead said the trial met the endpoint of non-inferiority in viral load reduction and the drug worked as well as protease inhibitors in the treatment of HIV.

The 20mg lowest dose of GS 9137 was discontinued due to its failure in reducing viral load at this strength.

Gilead also said the addition of darunavir or tipranavir to the GS 9137 study arms was permitted, following the availability of data demonstrating a lack of drug interactions between both protease inhibitors and GS 9137.