A revolutionary human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention drug, lenacapavir, has demonstrated 100% efficacy in a recent trial involving young women.

Conducted in South Africa and Uganda, with around 5 000 participants, the bi-yearly injection was found to offer complete protection against HIV, a significant advancement over daily pills. This long-acting injectable has been described as a potential game-changer for HIV prevention, especially given the challenges associated with adherence to daily medication.

The drug, produced by US pharmaceutical firm Gilead, is already approved in America and Europe for treating HIV but is now awaiting regulatory approval for prevention. While the results have been met with enthusiasm, concerns about affordability remain.

Gilead has not yet disclosed pricing for low-income countries and is considering a limited licensing approach, which may restrict the availability of cheaper generic versions.

The need for effective HIV prevention methods is critical, with high rates of HIV and hepatitis C observed among people who inject drugs in certain regions. The new injectable could offer a vital tool in the global fight against HIV, but ensuring broad access will be crucial to its success.

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