Lenacapavir HIV injection to cost just Sh5,000, promises global breakthrough
The cheaper version is expected to reach 120 low- and middle-income countries from 2027, pending regulatory approval.
A groundbreaking HIV prevention drug will soon be available at a fraction of its current cost in low- and middle-income countries, in what health experts say could mark a turning point in the fight against the global epidemic.
The twice-yearly injectable drug Lenacapavir, which currently costs $28,218 (approx. Sh3.6 million) per person annually, will be sold for just $40 (Sh5,172) under a deal announced Wednesday.
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The cheaper version is expected to reach 120 low- and middle-income countries from 2027, pending regulatory approval.
Lenacapavir works by preventing HIV from multiplying in the body, with each injection providing six months of protection.
Health experts believe it could sharply reduce new infections among those at highest risk, including young women, LGBT people, sex workers, and people who use drugs. It is set to replace the current prevention drug, PrEP, which also costs about $40 (Sh5,172) per year but must be taken daily.
The agreement was reached between Dr Reddy's Laboratories and Unitaid, the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and South Africa's Wits RHI.
"Securing a US$40 (Sh5,172) price for the twice-yearly lenacapavir injection for PrEP is a historic breakthrough that proves the most advanced tools can be made affordable from the very start. This directly answers the calls from countries and communities to make lenacapavir as affordable as oral PrEP," said Unitaid's Executive Director, Dr Philippe Duneton.
"This is exactly the kind of impact Unitaid was created to deliver. Just as we did with dolutegravir, which became the most widely used HIV treatment worldwide, we are working with partners to ensure lenacapavir will be within reach for millions who need it most."
Clinical trials have shown very strong results, with one study reporting a 100% success rate in preventing HIV infection. The World Health Organisation (WHO) endorsed the drug in July, while regulators in the United States and Europe have already approved it.
UNAIDS estimates that more than 40 million people worldwide are living with HIV. Last year alone, 1.3 million people were newly infected, and over 600,000 died from AIDS-related illnesses.
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