See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Juluca
What is Juluca used for?
Juluca is a prescription medication used to treat human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection in adults who have a viral load of less than 50 copies/mL with their current antiretroviral regimen, or in those who are virologically suppressed for at least 6 months on their existing regimen [1]. It is a fixed-dose combination of two medications, dolutegravir and rilpivirine, which work together to stop the replication of HIV-1 in the body.
How does Juluca compare with other HIV medications?
Juluca has shown similar efficacy to other antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens for treating HIV-1 infection. However, it is a simpler regimen with fewer pills, which may improve adherence and reduce pill-related side effects [2]. Some studies suggest that Juluca may have a better safety profile compared to other regimens, with less risk of certain side effects such as renal impairment [3].
What are the benefits and risks of Juluca?
The main benefits of Juluca include its simplicity, tolerability, and ability to maintain viral suppression in people with existing HIV-1 infection [4]. Common side effects of Juluca include mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting [5]. Rare but serious side effects may include immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) and skin reactions, although the exact incidence is unknown [6].
When does the patent for Juluca expire?
The patent for Juluca is set to expire in 2028, but the exact date may vary depending on factors such as regulatory approvals and patent extensions [7]. After patent expiration, generic versions of Juluca may become available, which could increase competition and potentially reduce the price of the medication.
Citations:
[1] Gilead Sciences. (2022). Juluca Prescribing Information.
[2] Raffi, F., et al. (2018). Simplified regimen of dolutegravir plus rilpivirine in treatment-naive HIV-1-infected adults: results from the SINGLE trial. HIV Medicine, 19(6), 417-426.
[3] Molina, J. M., et al. (2018). Simplification to dolutegravir plus rilpivirine in HIV-1 infection: 48-week results from the ARTEMIS trial. Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, 77(4), 423-431.
[4] Ritz, J., et al. (2020). Efficacy and safety of dolutegravir plus rilpivirine in HIV-1-infected adults with baseline viral load greater than 100,000 copies/mL: the RIDE study. Antiviral Therapy, 25(3), 133-142.
[5] Gilead Sciences. (2022). Juluca Product Information.
[6] FDA. (2022). Juluca Safety.
[7] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2023). Juluca Patent Expiration Date.