A new way to prevent HIV delivers dramatic results in trial

A trial testing the drug lenacapavir for HIV prevention showed 100% effectiveness, leading to the decision to offer the injection to all participants instead of the daily pill. The trial, called PURPOSE 1, involved 5,300 cisgender women in South Africa and Uganda, with those receiving the injection remaining HIV-free while those on oral PrEP had infection rates of about 2%. Experts are optimistic about the potential of lenacapavir, especially for populations with adherence challenges. Advocacy groups see it as a game-changer in combating HIV, particularly in regions facing stigma and discrimination. While lenacapavir has been approved for HIV treatment, this trial marks its first use for prevention. Ongoing trials are assessing its efficacy in other populations. Challenges remain, including cost considerations for widespread use, with efforts to make the drug more accessible in high-incidence, resource-limited countries. Gilead Sciences aims to expedite access to lenacapavir through licensing programs for generic versions. The success of lenacapavir in the trial has sparked hope for improved HIV prevention strategies globally.