Blood-Borne Viral Diseases Program

HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, in particular the CD4 cells that help the immune system fight off infections. Untreated, HIV leads to AIDS - the most severe phase of HIV infection. The immune system of those who have AIDS is severely compromised, making them an easy target for a number of life-threatening illnesses called opportunistic infections. HIV is an acute global threat that already devours billions of dollars in government spending and the costs are projected to keep increasing.

 
 
“US$28 Billion REQUIRED
Annually for AIDS response
in USA ALONE”
— WHO

Meanwhile, the number of HIV-infected people that develop resistance to treatment is steadily growing. Up to 10% of adults starting HIV treatment can have drug resistance to the NNRTI drug class. Pretreatment NNRTI resistance is up to 3 times more common in people with previous exposure to antiretroviral drugs. These patients need new effective treatments, but the majority cannot afford them: the price of a second-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) in some countries can reach three times that of a standard first-line ART. Viriom's Elpida has a high resistance to viral mutations and no cross-resistance with other available treatments, allowing it to be used successfully as a second-line therapy, especially in combination with other antiviral drugs.

 
“Up to 10% of adults
starting HIV treatment
can have drug resistance
to the NNRTI drug class”
— WHO

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (or PrEP) helps lower the chances of getting infected with HIV. It is particularly important for those in high HIV risk groups. The medication has to be taken daily and consistently in combination with other prevention methods to offer maximum protection. Viriom is currently developing a number of long-acting oral and injectable formulations that would allow for a once-weekly or less frequent dosing, which would facilitate the adherence to therapy in HIV-infected and provide a convenient method of prophylaxis for those in high HIV-risk groups.

“Daily PrEP reduces the risk
of getting HIV by up to
90%”
— CDC

Viriom is focused on delivering novel, effective, and safe treatments that are also affordable to the patients in the developing world. Viriom's Blood-Borne Viral Diseases program includes treatments for HIV, as well as Hepatis B and Hepatitis C.