WHO recommends a twice-a-year injection for HIV prevention
The World Health Organization (WHO) has pre-qualified lenacapavir (Sunlenca), a long-acting HIV prevention injection, marking a significant step toward its global rollout.
Key Points:
- Twice-Yearly Dosing: Lenacapavir is administered as a subcutaneous injection every six months, making it a highly convenient option for HIV prevention (PrEP).
- For High-Risk Groups: It is particularly recommended for key populations at high risk of HIV, including men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender individuals, and sex workers.
- Alternative to Daily Pills: Unlike daily oral PrEP (e.g., Truvada or Descovy), lenacapavir offers long-lasting protection with fewer adherence challenges.
- Effectiveness: Clinical trials have shown it to be highly effective in reducing HIV transmission when administered as scheduled.
WHO’s Role:
- The WHO prequalification (June 2024) helps accelerate access in low- and middle-income countries by allowing procurement by UN agencies and governments.
- It is part of WHO’s strategy to expand HIV prevention options beyond oral PrEP and the monthly cabotegravir (CAB-LA) injection.
Next Steps:
- Regulatory approvals in individual countries are still needed.
- Cost and accessibility will be critical factors in widespread adoption.
Lenacapavir represents a major breakthrough in HIV prevention, offering a discreet, long-acting alternative to daily pills.
Reference:
Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link