An injectable HIV-prevention drug is highly effective – but expensive

a year ago

Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable HIV-prevention drug, shows 89% more effectiveness than daily oral medication among gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals, and 100% effectiveness in cisgender women.
The drug's high cost ($3,450 per month for treatment) raises concerns about equitable access, despite its potential to significantly reduce HIV infections.
Gilead Sciences plans to submit lenacapavir for FDA approval as PrEP by the end of 2024, with potential market availability by mid-to-late 2025.
Previous oral PrEP medications like Truvada and Descovy have faced challenges with adherence, particularly among Black and Latino gay and bisexual men, who have higher HIV rates.
Advocates emphasize the need for affordable pricing and broad access to lenacapavir to avoid exacerbating existing racial disparities in HIV prevention.
Lenacapavir's subcutaneous injection leaves a small visible deposit, which may be stigmatizing for some users, though the drug is otherwise safe and well-tolerated.
The South, where Medicaid expansion is limited, accounts for half of new HIV cases in the U.S., highlighting the need for accessible prevention tools like lenacapavir.
Gilead has committed to making lenacapavir available in high-incidence, resource-limited countries, but details on pricing and distribution remain unclear.

Hasty Briefsbeta