Lenacapavir (Yeztugo) Approved: A Twice-Yearly Gamechanger in HIV Prevention

lenacapavir

Stakeholders welcome new HIV prevention drug development

The recent FDA approval of lenacapavir (branded as Yeztugo) has been hailed by experts and advocates as a groundbreaking achievement in HIV prevention—potentially a true gamechanger.

Dr. Nyaradzo Mgodi, Senior Researcher at the University of Zimbabwe Clinical Trials Research Centre, praised the combined efforts of researchers, trial communities, and advocates that led to Yeztugo’s breakthrough. She emphasized its monumental impact, noting that clinical trials demonstrated 99.9% efficacy in preventing HIV transmission adelaidenow.com.au+15wired.com+15time.com+15time.com.

How Yeztugo worksYeztugo targets HIV at the capsid stage, blocking viral replication. After two initial oral doses and subcutaneous injections at six-month intervals, it provides long-lasting protection and dramatically improves adherence—key to reducing stigma and simplifying prevention regimens drugs.com+4time.com+4washingtonpost.com+4.

Dr. Mgodi on adherence and equity“Lenacapavir helps in the issues of adherence… one only needs to take it twice yearly. It also reduces stigma…” she explained, highlighting the importance of affordable access, particularly for vulnerable younger women.

Voices from advocacy: affordability mattersMr. Stanley Takaona, President of ZHAAUCT, echoed support for Yeztugo’s ease-of-use and expressed concern over ARV shortages. He urged stakeholders to guarantee affordability and availability when the drug becomes locally accessible.

Myth-busting: it’s not a cure or vaccineScientists are cautioning against misleading social media claims. Yeztugo is not a cure or vaccine—but an effective prevention tool. Similar to oral PrEP, it must be part of a comprehensive HIV prevention strategy .

Existing prevention toolsCurrent options still include:

• Oral PrEP (daily pills)

• Injectable cabotegravir every two months

• Dapivirine vaginal ring

• Condoms (male & female)

Yeztugo enriches these options, offering individuals—especially women—with a new long-acting alternative