GSK’s ViiV Halts Phase 2 HIV Drug Development

GSK’s ViiV Healthcare has halted the development of a Phase 2-stage HIV antiviral named VH3739937, as confirmed by a GSK spokesperson. The suspension was triggered by preliminary findings in a preclinical study of a similar maturation inhibitor, as noted in a federal trials database update. The specific drug compared to VH3739937 was not disclosed.

The decision to stop the development was driven by VH3739937 not meeting the target product profiles (TPPs) for ultra long-acting or self-administered long-acting HIV treatment, according to the GSK spokesperson. Additionally, a Phase 1 trial of the drug was also halted. Initial data from the placebo-controlled trial was anticipated in the second half of the year, as per a GSK quarterly update in July. GSK holds a majority stake in ViiV, a company that offers 17 prescription HIV medications. Pfizer and Shionogi also have partial ownership in ViiV.

VH3739937 is part of a class of treatments known as maturation inhibitors, which work by preventing HIV from maturing and subsequently infecting other cells. While daily medication helps many individuals manage HIV, drug-resistant strains persist, prompting multiple pharmaceutical companies to pursue innovative antivirals.

A recent article published in the journal Viruses indicated that the oral half-life of this maturation inhibitor could potentially allow for once-weekly dosing. The authors noted that this experimental drug is structurally similar to GSK3640254, another maturation inhibitor by GSK, which was discontinued in early 2023 after completing Phase 2 trials.

At the time of its second-quarter presentation, GSK had four other Phase 2 HIV-related assets. These included two capsid protein inhibitors, an integrase inhibitor, and a broadly neutralizing antibody.

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