US Plans to Provide Gilead HIV Drug at Cost in High-Burden Countries

The U.S. State Department has announced a plan to make Gilead Sciences Inc.’s long-acting HIV prevention drug lenacapavir available “at cost” in countries with the highest HIV burden. The initiative aims to reach two million people within three years, offering the drug through the Global Fund and the PEPFAR program at a non-profit price. Officials said this marks a crucial step in scaling up access to advanced HIV prevention therapies in low-income regions where affordability has long been a barrier.

Strengthening Global Partnerships

The collaboration between the U.S. government, Gilead Sciences, and the Global Fund underscores the importance of international partnerships in fighting HIV/AIDS. By leveraging combined resources and commitments, the initiative seeks to close treatment gaps and expand prevention in communities most at risk.

Impact on HIV Prevention Efforts

If executed effectively, the program could significantly reduce new infections in high-burden regions. Experts believe wider access to lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable, will ease adherence challenges compared to daily oral medications, thereby strengthening prevention outcomes on a global scale.