Pfizer’s new anti-HIV drug

Maraviroc, developed by Pfizer in Kent, could cut patients’ HIV to undetectable levels. A new HIV drug has been cleared by the European licensing authorities, meaning millions of people could have much better control of the infection. During trials Maraviroc has proved twice as effective as existing drugs in cutting HIV to undetectable levels in patients with long-term infection.

While it does not cure the infection, along with existing therapies it means HIV is no longer a death sentence. Developed by Pfizer in Kent, it is the first new drug in its class for a decade, and is expected to be available in Europe within the next few months after final marketing approval.