Lenacapavir Named 'Breakthrough of the Year' for Advancing HIV Prevention
The injectable drug offers a twice-yearly alternative to daily pills, marking a significant step in global HIV prophylaxis efforts.
- The prestigious journal 'Science' has recognized Lenacapavir as the most important scientific breakthrough of 2024 for its role in HIV prevention.
- The drug is administered as a semi-annual injection, providing an effective and more convenient alternative to daily oral PrEP medications like Truvada.
- Experts highlight the potential of Lenacapavir to improve access to HIV prevention, particularly in regions with high infection rates, such as sub-Saharan Africa.
- The manufacturer, Gilead, plans to seek approval for Lenacapavir as an HIV prevention tool in multiple countries, with a focus on making it available in lower-income regions.
- Currently, Lenacapavir is approved in the EU for treating certain HIV-positive patients, but its availability as a preventive option in places like Germany remains uncertain.