In a major breakthrough for global HIV prevention efforts, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recommended Gilead Sciences’ long-acting injectable drug lenacapavir for people at high risk of HIV.
This twice-yearly injection could significantly transform how HIV prevention is approached, particularly in underserved and high-risk populations.
What is Lenacapavir?
Lenacapavir is a biannual pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) injection, offering an alternative to the daily pills currently used for HIV prevention. By reducing the frequency of treatment, lenacapavir aims to improve adherence rates and offer a more convenient option for individuals who struggle with daily medication routines.
“This is a major milestone. Long-acting options like lenacapavir can be a game-changer for people who have difficulty taking pills daily,” said WHO in its official recommendation.
Why It Matters
- Improved Access & Compliance: A biannual shot removes the burden of remembering daily pills, particularly useful in regions with limited access to continuous healthcare.
- Support for Vulnerable Populations: This recommendation is especially important for young women in sub-Saharan Africa, a region with a high HIV prevalence and limited resources.
- Global Impact Potential: If widely adopted, this method could significantly reduce new HIV infections worldwide.
What’s Next?
Gilead’s lenacapavir is still awaiting regulatory approval for PrEP use in many countries. However, with WHO’s backing, it’s expected that national health agencies and global health NGOs will fast-track its consideration for broad implementation.
Gilead has expressed a commitment to making the drug accessible and affordable in low- and middle-income countries, which are disproportionately affected by the HIV epidemic.
The Bigger Picture
With over 39 million people living with HIV globally, the WHO’s endorsement of long-acting preventive options like lenacapavir aligns with the international goal to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
