New HIV Prevention Drug Shows 100% Efficacy in Women

Twice-yearly injections of lenacapavir offer complete protection against HIV, with potential to transform global prevention efforts.

Lenacapavir, marketed as Sunleca, prevented HIV in all female participants of a study in South Africa and Uganda.
The drug, given as an injection twice a year, could significantly reduce new HIV infections if made widely accessible.
Experts highlight the drug's potential to provide young women with greater control over their sexual health and reduce mother-to-child transmission.
The study's success has led to calls for affordable global access, as current costs are prohibitively high.
Further trials are ongoing to confirm efficacy in men and other groups, with results expected later this year.