Within two years, it’ll be accessible not only to the wealthy but to millions of people who need it.
South Africa (02 October 2025) – Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injection that’s been proven to be one of the most effective HIV prevention methods to date, will be rolled out at just US$40 (about R700) a year in 120 low- and middle-income countries by 2027.
“Since 2010, coordinated global efforts have reduced new HIV infections by 40 percent, but UNAIDS data show 1.3 million new infections occurred in 2024,” shares the University of Witwatersrand (Wits).
This injectable, which provides protection for six months, could simplify HIV prevention for millions of people who struggle with daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) pills.
The cost will be on par with the daily medication, but instead of 365 tablets, it’s only two injections a year, with an initial oral dose when starting the regimen to ensure that protective levels of the drug are reached quickly.
Wits’ RHI (Reproductive Health and HIV Institute) has partnered with Unitaid and the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) to help strike the deal with Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories to manufacture a generic version of the medication.
Professor Saiqa Mullick from Wits RHI explains why this matters.
“Generic manufacture of lenacapavir is essential to ensure this breakthrough HIV prevention option is not limited to a privileged few. By driving prices down and securing sustainable supply, generics will make six-monthly PrEP a real choice for the millions of people in great need in low- and middle-income countries.”
They’re also running studies here to test how the injection can be introduced into public health systems and communities.
The deal means that by 2027, lenacapavir won’t just be available in wealthy countries; it will be accessible where it is desperately needed.
“For too long, low-income countries have waited years for access to breakthrough medicines,” says Buddy Shah, CEO of CHAI. “This deal changes that – by 2027, a nearly 100% effective HIV prevention tool will be affordable and available at the same time globally. It’s a new model for how innovation reaches those who need it most.”
Sources: Linked above
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