A groundbreaking HIV prevention injection has emerged with the U.S. approval of lenacapavir, the world’s first twice-yearly injection that could dramatically reduce transmission rates. This medical advancement arrives as global HIV elimination efforts face significant challenges.
Developed by Gilead Sciences and marketed as Yeztugo for prevention (Sunlenca for treatment), this innovative subcutaneous injection provides six months of continuous protection against HIV infection.
Clinical trials demonstrated exceptional effectiveness, particularly among high-risk populations who struggle with daily pill regimens.
“This innovation represents a potential turning point in our fight against HIV transmission,” noted Greg Millett of amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research. “The extended protection window addresses critical adherence challenges we’ve faced with daily PrEP medications.”
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Two landmark studies revealed the injection’s impressive results:
Ian Haddock, a Houston-based HIV advocate participating in the trials, shared his experience: “The freedom from daily pills has been transformative. Six-month protection removes the constant worry about adherence.”
While Gilead has agreements with generic manufacturers for 120 low-income countries, concerns persist about affordability and distribution.
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UNAIDS calls current pricing “prohibitive” for widespread adoption, middle-income nations lack access to discounted programs and the projected supply covers just 2 million patients initially
Dr.
Gordon Crofoot, a lead researcher, emphasized: “Universal access is crucial. This prevention method could change everything – if people can actually get it.”
Source: Iharare
