Lenacapavir Should be Affordable, Researchers

Researchers from the Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) are urging the Ugandan government and development partners to support citizens in accessing the new HIV prevention drug, Lenacapavir.

The drug has demonstrated 100% efficacy, surpassing previous treatments, and is expected to be available in pharmacies by late 2024 or early 2025.

Dr. Flavia Matovu Kiweewa, Director of Research at MU-JHU, emphasized that cost will be a major issue once Lenacapavir is globally approved. "What is on my mind currently is how we can make it accessible, especially for Uganda where we have invested so much?" she said.

She also called for swift action from organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Drug Authority (NDA), and Uganda's Ministry of Health (MOH) to fast-track approval and update guidelines for the drug's use, while stressing that affordability remains crucial.

Epidemiology and clinical trials expert Noah Kiwanuka advised the public to continue using existing HIV prevention methods while waiting for Lenacapavir.

He urged people to adopt current prevention strategies like the ABC approach, circumcision, and antiretrovirals such as oral drugs, vaginal rings, and injectables like Cabotegravir, to ensure they remain HIV-negative and eligible for Lenacapavir.

The PURPOSE 1 study, which focused on adolescent girls, young women, and those engaging in transactional sex aged 18 to 24, revealed that the risk of HIV is not limited to these groups. Experts stressed that Lenacapavir should be available to all females, as it has also shown a 96% protection rate in males.

Dr. Herbert Kadama, PrEP Coordinator at the Ministry of Health, clarified that Lenacapavir should not be confused with PrEP, as it targets individuals who are not currently exposed to the virus.

The experts made these remarks at the National Stakeholders Engagement Meeting, organized by MU-JHU and the Ministry of Health.