An annual injection designed to protect against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) has successfully completed an important early safety trial. The drug, known as lenacapavir, works by preventing the virus from replicating inside human cells. If further trials confirm its effectiveness, it could become the longest-acting form of HIV prevention available.
Currently, individuals at risk of contracting HIV can take daily pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) tablets or receive injections every eight weeks. While these methods are highly effective, maintaining a daily medication schedule can be challenging for many people. The development of a yearly injectable alternative could significantly improve adherence and access to preventive treatment.
HIV remains a major global health concern, with an estimated 39.9 million people living with the virus. The majority around 65% are in the African region. Efforts to combat the epidemic focus on improving access to preventive treatments such as PrEP, which is a key part of strategies aimed at ending HIV transmission by 2030.
In the recent trial, 40 participants without HIV received lenacapavir through an injection into the muscle. The study found no major side effects or safety concerns, and the drug was still present in their systems 56 weeks after administration. Researchers emphasized the need for future trials to include more diverse participant groups. However, they expressed optimism about the potential of yearly dosing to increase uptake and scalability of PrEP by reducing barriers to its use.
Advocates in the field of HIV prevention have welcomed the findings, describing them as an exciting and transformational development. The potential of a long-acting, once-yearly injectable form of PrEP could make a significant difference in preventing new infections. Preparations should begin now to ensure a smooth rollout of this new option if later-stage trials confirm its effectiveness.
Access to PrEP has historically been inconsistent, with some groups facing greater challenges in obtaining it. The oral form is still not widely available in certain settings, including prisons and community pharmacies. Some regions have made progress in expanding access to injectable PrEP. For example, two-monthly injections have recently been approved in Scotland, but approval for wider use in other areas is still pending.
Ensuring equitable access to PrEP remains a key concern. Expanding availability and supporting sexual-health clinics will be crucial in maximizing the impact of long-acting options like lenacapavir. If successfully implemented, a once-a-year injection could revolutionize HIV prevention and move global health efforts closer to the goal of ending the epidemic.
