Munich, Germany – A groundbreaking study reveals that a new drug could potentially revolutionize HIV prevention by slashing the current price by a thousandfold. Lenacapavir, marketed as Sunlenca by Gilead, is touted as “the closest we have ever been to an HIV vaccine” and could cost as little as $40 a year per patient, a stark contrast to its current price tag of $42,250 for the first year.
The research, presented at the 25th international AIDS conference held in Munich, highlights the potential of lenacapavir to prevent HIV infection and suppress the virus among those already infected. In clinical trials, the drug demonstrated 100% effectiveness in protecting over 5,000 women in South Africa and Uganda. Despite its current licensing for treatment only, experts emphasize the need for mass production of a generic version to ensure fair access globally.
Dr. Andrew Hill, the lead researcher, emphasizes the significance of lenacapavir’s biannual dosing schedule in preventing HIV – a major advancement compared to daily pill regimens and barrier methods like condoms. Advocates are calling on Gilead to consider generic licensing through the Medicines Patent Pool for all low- and middle-income countries, which account for 95% of HIV infections worldwide.
While Gilead has yet to finalize pricing strategies for lenacapavir, the company assures a commitment to enabling broad and sustainable access globally. This includes prioritizing high-incidence, resource-limited countries and exploring voluntary licensing programs for broader accessibility. However, campaigners stress the importance of ensuring access to affordable versions of the drug for all in need, including upper middle-income countries like Brazil.
The potential impact of a biannual injectable like lenacapavir extends beyond medical efficacy, offering a more discreet and stigma-free option for individuals living with or at risk of HIV. As efforts continue to expand access and affordability of this groundbreaking drug, global health experts laud its potential to transform HIV prevention efforts and move closer to the goal of ending new HIV transmissions by 2030.
