Gilead Sciences Receives Approval for Yeztugo HIV Prevention Injection
Gilead Sciences has recently been granted approval by US health authorities for their groundbreaking HIV prevention injection, Yeztugo. This new injection, which is administered twice a year, is based on the drug lenacapavir and is specifically designed for individuals who struggle with daily pill regimens for HIV prevention.
Extensive clinical trials involving thousands of participants have shown that Yeztugo is over 99.9% effective in preventing HIV, making it a game-changer in the field of HIV prevention. Eligible for individuals weighing at least 35 kilograms, this injection has the potential to revolutionize HIV prevention for many.
Concerns Over High Price Tag
Despite its effectiveness, concerns have been raised over the steep price of Yeztugo in the US, where it is priced at over US$28,000 annually. This high cost has sparked worries that only those with financial means will be able to afford it in high-income countries.
Health experts have pointed out that a generic version of the drug could cost as little as US$25 per year if produced at scale, highlighting the stark difference in pricing and raising questions about accessibility and equity.
Efforts to Improve Access
To address concerns about affordability, Gilead has partnered with six manufacturers to produce cheaper versions of Yeztugo. These agreements cover 120 countries and include a commitment to supply doses for two million people through global health partnerships. However, regulatory approval and distribution of these low-cost alternatives may take several years.
Challenges Ahead
While the approval of Yeztugo represents a significant advancement in HIV prevention, the high cost and slow rollout of cheaper versions could limit its global impact. Many health advocates are questioning whether access to life-saving prevention should be a privilege or a right.
Source: Graphic Online
