US Approves World’s Only Biannual Shot to Prevent HIV Transmission
TL/DR –
The US has approved the world’s first twice-a-year injection designed to prevent HIV, according to manufacturer Gilead Sciences. The drug, lenacapavir, almost completely eradicated new infections in two studies of high-risk participants and is expected to be adopted by those leery of frequent physician visits or the stigma related to daily pills. Yet, the cuts to public health agencies and Medicaid, and reduced American foreign aid to combat HIV, are challenging the delivery of lenacapavir in the US and globally.
U.S. Approves World’s First Biannual HIV Prevention Injection
Gilead Sciences announced the U.S. approval of the only twice-a-year HIV prevention shot, a significant leap towards a global rollout that could potentially protect millions. The drug, lenacapvir, could be a significant step towards preventing HIV, despite the absence of a vaccine.
In two crucial studies, lenacapvir nearly eliminated new infections among high risk individuals, proving more reliable than daily pills. Greg Millett of the Foundation for AIDS Research believes that the drug could potentially end HIV transmission.
Lenacapavir’s Pros and Cons
Protection methods like condoms and PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) are crucial in the fight against HIV. However, lenacapavir’s six-month protection period could provide an alternative for those hesitant to take daily pills or undergo regular doctor visits. This HIV prevention shot, however, faces potential limitations due to public health cuts, Medicaid reduction, and decreased foreign aid for HIV.
Global HIV Prevention Efforts
The drug is already sold to treat HIV under the Sunlenca brand. The prevention dose, however, will be marketed under the name Yeztugo. It’s worth noting, though, that Yeztugo only prevents HIV and not other sexually transmitted diseases. Despite ongoing efforts, global HIV eradication by 2030 seems unlikely, with more than 30,000 new infections in the U.S. and about 1.3 million worldwide annually.
Study Results on Lenacapavir
Two studies have shown promising results for lenacapavir. First, a study in South Africa and Uganda found no HIV infections among sexually active young women and teens given the injection twice a year. Second, the shot was nearly as effective in preventing HIV among gay men and gender-nonconforming individuals in the U.S. and other countries affected by HIV.
Lenacapavir: A Potential Game-Changer
Lenacapavir could revolutionize HIV prevention. As Ian Haddock of the Normal Anomaly Initiative shares, the six-month shot eliminates the need for daily pills and regularly discussing condoms. Dr. Gordon Crofoot, who helped lead the study in men, insists that easy access to highly effective PrEP like lenacapavir is crucial for anyone at risk of HIV.
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