HIV Prevention Research Study
Researchers at Columbia University are conducting a study on healthy women to learn more about preventing HIV.
Fast Facts
Cisgender Women Ages 18+
Have been sexually active with a man (condomless) in the last 12 months
Do not have HIV
Compensation Provided
Conducted in NYC
Study Background
Researchers at Columbia University are studying two ways to prevent HIV in women: a shot that lasts for six months (Lenacapavir, or LEN) and a daily pill (Truvada). The goal is to see which method women prefer, how safe and effective each one is, and how they work in the body.
This HIV prevention study is exploring new ways to help women protect themselves from HIV, a virus that can cause serious health problems. Right now, the most common way to prevent HIV is by taking a pill every day, called Truvada. But in this study, researchers are testing a new option: a shot that only needs to be given every six months. This shot is called Lenacapavir (LEN).
The goal of the study is to find out which method women prefer—the shot or the daily pill—and to see how safe and effective each one is. Researchers also want to learn how easy or hard it is for women to use each option. The information gathered could lead to better ways for women to protect themselves from HIV in the future.
By joining this study, women will help scientists learn more about what works best for HIV prevention, which could improve health care for other women in the future.
Study Background
Researchers at Columbia University are studying two ways to prevent HIV in women: a shot that lasts for six months (Lenacapavir, or LEN) and a daily pill (Truvada). The goal is to see which method women prefer, how safe and effective each one is, and how they work in the body.
This HIV prevention study is exploring new ways to help women protect themselves from HIV, a virus that can cause serious health problems. Right now, the most common way to prevent HIV is by taking a pill every day, called Truvada. But in this study, researchers are testing a new option: a shot that only needs to be given every six months. This shot is called Lenacapavir (LEN).
The goal of the study is to find out which method women prefer—the shot or the daily pill—and to see how safe and effective each one is. Researchers also want to learn how easy or hard it is for women to use each option. The information gathered could lead to better ways for women to protect themselves from HIV in the future.
By joining this study, women will help scientists learn more about what works best for HIV prevention, which could improve health care for other women in the future.
Additional Information
This study is being done to compare two methods of HIV prevention for women: a long-acting shot (Lenacapavir) given every six months, and a daily pill (Truvada). Researchers want to find out which method women prefer, how safe and effective each treatment is, and how they work in the body. The goal is to improve HIV prevention options and better understand how to protect women at risk of HIV.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 18+
- Woman (assigned female at birth)
- Have been sexually active with a man (condomless) in the past year
- Do not have HIV
If you choose to participate in this HIV prevention study, here’s what you can expect:
Screening: First, you’ll complete a screening visit where we’ll check your health and make sure you’re eligible to join the study. This includes some basic tests and questionnaires.
Randomized Treatment: Once you’re enrolled, you’ll be randomly assigned to one of two groups:
- Group 1: Receive a shot every 6 months (Lenacapavir, or LEN)
- Group 2: Take a daily pill (Truvada) for HIV prevention
You won’t be able to choose which group you’re in, but both treatments are being studied to find out which one works best.
Regular Study Visits: Over the next 2.5 years, you’ll visit the study site about 13 times. During these visits, you’ll:
- Receive your medication (shots or pills)
- Complete some health assessments, questionnaires, and lab tests
- Answer questions about your health, sexual behaviors, and lifestyle
These visits help researchers understand how well the treatment works and how it affects your health.
Participants in the HIV prevention study can earn between $650 and $800 throughout the study (lasting up to 2.5 years). The total amount depends on the number of visits completed, as well as any additional bonuses.
Compensation Breakdown:
- Study visits: Earn up to $800 based on the number of visits completed and bonuses
- Repeat lab tests and assessments: $30 per test or assessment
- Referral bonus: Earn $25 for each of up to 3 participants you refer who successfully enroll in the study
Additional Benefits:
- Transportation: Roundtrip MetroCards for travel to study visits
- Meals: $10-$20 meal vouchers for visits lasting more than 5 hours
- Snacks and drinks: Water, coffee, tea, and juice will be provided at each visit
- Study medications and lab tests: Provided at no cost to participants
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.