Lenacapavir offers six-month HIV protection

Health

Deutsche Welle

Lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable PrEP that requires one shot every six months and targets the HIV capsid, creating a depot that dissolves slowly and remains potent at low concentrations. Experts say it removes the daily pill adherence barrier, but its population impact depends on affordable supply and targeted delivery. Gilead agreed to supply the drug at no profit for up to 2 million people and to allow generics in 120 resource-limited countries, and South Africa started a rollout in June 2026; however some Latin American countries were excluded and access gaps may limit epidemiological benefits.

Lenacapavir provides six-month PrEP but needs affordable, targeted access