Lenacapavir: A Groundbreaking HIV Prevention Solution
Gilead Sciences has announced plans to provide affordable versions of its HIV prevention drug, lenacapavir, in 120 low and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. The drug, which is administered as a twice-yearly injection, has shown exceptional promise in reducing HIV infection rates among women and men during clinical trials.
Successful Trials Across Multiple Countries
Clinical trials in South Africa and Uganda have demonstrated lenacapavir’s effectiveness in preventing HIV infections, particularly among women and girls. Further trials with men across countries like Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Peru, South Africa, Thailand, and the US have shown nearly complete protection from HIV infection.
Gilead’s Licensing Agreements for Widespread Access
To facilitate the production and distribution of affordable lenacapavir, Gilead has entered into non-exclusive, royalty-free voluntary licensing agreements with six pharmaceutical manufacturers. These include Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Limited, Emcure, Eva Pharma, Ferozsons Laboratories Limited, Hetero, and Mylan (a subsidiary of Viatris). These companies will produce and sell generic versions of the drug in the 120 designated countries.
Prioritizing High HIV Prevalence Countries
While awaiting global regulatory approvals, Gilead has committed to bridging the supply gap by providing lenacapavir itself until the licensed manufacturers can fully operate. The company will focus on 18 countries with high HIV prevalence, including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda.
Gilead’s Two-Part Strategy for HIV Prevention and Treatment
Gilead’s strategy includes making lenacapavir accessible at low cost through its voluntary licensing program, alongside providing its own supply of the drug at no profit until generic manufacturers meet demand. This initiative will cover both HIV prevention and treatment for individuals with multi-drug resistant HIV.
CEO’s Commitment to Ending the HIV Epidemic
Gilead CEO Daniel O’Day emphasized the urgency of making lenacapavir widely available, stating, “Given the transformative potential of lenacapavir, the focus is on making it available as quickly and broadly as possible.” He assured that Gilead is working closely with high-volume generic manufacturers to ensure a swift rollout once the drug receives approval for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
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