The FDA will vote Thursday on whether or not to approve an HIV prevention drug called Truvada. The drug is the first ever preventive treatment intended for people who are at high risk of contracting human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) through sexual intercourse.
The drug is made by Gilead Sciences Inc., a company based in Foster City, CA. They have marketed Truvada since 2004 as a treatment for people who are infected with the HIV virus. The medication is a combination of two older HIV drugs, Emtriva and Viread.
Some research indicates taking the drug can lower a person's risk of HIV infection. AIDS United and more than a dozen other advocacy groups are urging the FDA to approve Truvada.
There are others who are voicing concerns over the cost of the drug. Health care providers in particular are concerned about Truvada's $900 a month, or nearly $11,000 per year, price tag. The FDA, however, is not allowed to take the cost of drug into consideration when reviewing it for approval.
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