New HIV Prevention Drug Approved, Promises Global Impact
The FDA has approved lenacapavir, marketed as Yeztugo, a groundbreaking twice-yearly injection offering nearly complete protection against HIV. This capsid inhibitor, recognized as a major scientific breakthrough, has the potential to end the 44-year-long epidemic. To ensure global access, the manufacturer has entered royalty-free licensing agreements with generic drug producers and will supply the drug at no profit to countries in need, in partnership with the Global Fund. This preventative medication aims to transform HIV prevention by addressing adherence and stigma challenges associated with previous PrEP regimens.