JOHANNESBURG – Lenacapavir could be a breakthrough for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
The breakthrough long-acting drug is officially being rolled out in South Africa and can see a reduction in mother-to-child transmissions of HIV.
Nicolette Naidoo from Wits’ Reproductive Health and HIV Institute said if rolled out correctly, the drug could be a game-changer.
For decades, the fight against HIV has heavily relied on daily prevention pills and consistent adherence.
On Lenacapavir, one needs to be injected twice a year.
“For us to have an impact, we need to put 2 million people on the medication,” said Naidoo.
She said despite the country’s efforts to curb HIV/AIDS infections, there has been an increase in infections.
Often, with people who take the daily medication not returning, it makes it hard for government to make the necessary inroads and impact.
With Lenacapavir, health officials expect to have a higher return rate.
“It is a slow-release medication that will last in the system slightly longer, which will help,” said Naidoo.
Patients on Lenacapavir will need to be re-injected every time they return for their shot. With the reduction in global funding for HIV treatment, advocating for people to switch to the twice-a-year drug could go a long way in reducing infection.