Merck to Begin Phase 3 Trials for Investigational Monthly HIV Prevention Pill

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) is among the 11 Best GLP-1 and Weight Loss Stocks to Invest in. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) has announced the start of two Phase 3 trials to evaluate MK-8527, an experimental once-monthly oral PrEP therapy: EXPrESSIVE-10 and EXPrESSIVE-11.

The EXPrESSIVE-11 trial, which is enrolling people in 16 countries worldwide, focuses on high-risk individuals. Meanwhile, EXPrESSIVE-10, which is funded by the Gates Foundation, focuses on women and adolescent girls in Sub-Saharan Africa. The trials will start enrolling participants in August 2025 and in the ensuing months, respectively.

A Phase 2 study involving 350 subjects revealed that the nucleoside reverse transcriptase translocation inhibitor (NRTTI) MK-8527 had positive pharmacokinetics and a safety profile. There were no noteworthy adverse effects or changes in CD4 levels. The Gates Foundation is providing funding for EXPrESSIVE-10’s site operations and community involvement at 31 sites in South Africa, Kenya, and Uganda. Given that only 18% of the world’s PrEP needs are now satisfied, the once-monthly oral format could increase high-risk individuals’ availability and adherence. It is one of the Best Weight Loss Stocks.

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