Lenacapavir injectable offers new breakthrough in HIV prevention

The injectable HIV prevention drug Lenacapavir, developed by Gilead Sciences, has emerged as a significant breakthrough in prophylaxis. Following clinical trials in South Africa and Uganda involving over 2,000 young women, the drug showed high efficacy, with no participants contracting HIV.

Unlike daily oral PrEP, Lenacapavir is administered only twice a year, which may improve adherence for individuals in crisis zones or those struggling with daily regimens. The World Health Organization has recommended the long-acting injectable as an additional PrEP option, and the US FDA authorized it for HIV prevention in June 2025.

While deployment is underway in South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, Nigeria, and Eswatini, concerns remain regarding global access. Gilead has committed to providing the product without profit to programs supported by the Global Fund and PEPFAR. Generic versions are expected to become available starting in 2027.