Lenacapavir represents a promising advance in HIV prevention. As an injectable drug given every six months, it offers an alternative to daily oral medication, which some patients find hard to adhere to. Experts stress that its success heavily relies on affordability and mass distribution, especially in low and middle-income countries.
To be effective, lenacapavir must be available at a low cost. Early suggestions indicate a yearly price of about US$40 to match the cost of oral medications. Countries with existing HIV programs, like Zambia and Kenya, are set to trial this drug, potentially influencing broader access and pricing in the future.
Gilead Sciences, the company behind lenacapavir, is committed to ensuring that this drug reaches those most in need. However, logistical challenges in production and community trust will be critical in determining the drug's long-term success.
Difficult words
- advance — A development or improvement in something.
- injectable — A medicine that can be given using a needle.
- adhering — Sticking to or following a rule or routine.adhere
- affordability — The ability to pay for something easily.
- logistical — Related to planning and organizing things.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What do you think are the biggest challenges for new medications in low-income countries?
- How might lenacapavir change the situation for people living with HIV?
- What role do you think companies have in making medications affordable?
Related articles
Social Media Fuelling Risky Bushmeat Sales – Study
A study shows that social media helps in the illegal sale of bushmeat in West Africa, increasing disease risks and threatening wildlife.
Can Noninvasive Nasal Drops Kill Deadly Brain Tumors?
Researchers have created a nose-delivered medicine that can eliminate dangerous brain tumors in mice.
Cholera Outbreak in Sudan
A cholera outbreak in Sudan has spread across all states, leading to thousands of cases and deaths amidst ongoing conflict and poor sanitary conditions.
New Antibody Test: Fast, No Blood Needed
A new test detects antibodies quickly without blood. It could help monitor infections and vaccine effectiveness.
Emory study: 2023–24 COVID vaccine gives lasting antibodies
Emory University measured antibody responses in 24 people after the 2023–24 monovalent vaccine targeting Omicron XBB.1.5. The study found long-lasting antibodies, cross-reactive protection with the ancestral WA1 strain, and a 2.8-fold boost from immune imprinting.
Pandemic Threat and Inequality
This article explains how inequality makes it harder to prevent pandemics, highlighting the cycle of disease and social disparity.