New HIV drug hailed, but can SA afford it?

THERE is widespread hope for curbing HIV after the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved an injectable drug for HIV prevention recently.

- PULE MAKGALE

Lenacapavir is a medication used to treat and prevent HIV infection. It functions as a capsid inhibitor, meaning it blocks the protein shell (capsid) that HIV requires to replicate.

Lenacapavir is available as oral tablets and subcutaneous injections, with the injections given every six months after an initial oral and injection phase.

The drug comes as relief as it could help overcome barriers such as having to take pills daily, frequent clinic visits and the stigma associated with HIV.

Clinical trials, conducted in South Africa and Uganda, have demonstrated its 100% efficacy in preventing HIV transmission when administered every six months. This injectable offers a potential alternative for individuals who may not adhere to daily oral PrEP medication.

More than 5000 participants were involved in the research, according to the Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine.