In a groundbreaking development for HIV prevention, a new drug called Yeztugo has been approved as the first-ever twice-yearly injection to lower the risk of HIV infection. This long-acting medication offers a major advancement in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), particularly for those who struggle with daily pills or frequent visits to healthcare facilities.
Originally used as a treatment for people living with HIV who had become resistant to other medications, Yeztugo (scientifically known as lenacapavir) has now been repurposed to serve as a powerful preventive measure. The approval of Yeztugo marks a major milestone in the fight against HIV, especially for communities where prevention options are underused due to stigma, accessibility issues, or challenges in adhering to current regimens.
HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is mainly transmitted through unprotected sex and sharing needles. Left untreated, it can weaken the immune system to the point where the body can no longer fight off common infections. Despite advances in medicine, only about a third of eligible individuals in the U.S. currently use PrEP. Utilization is especially low among women, people in the Southern U.S., and Black/African American and Hispanic populations.
Yeztugo offers a solution that may significantly increase PrEP uptake and adherence. The medication works by targeting the virus’s protective shell, interfering with multiple stages of HIV’s life cycle. This makes it more effective than most traditional HIV drugs, which typically only disrupt one phase of the virus’s development. It also retains its effectiveness even when other HIV treatments have failed.
The injection is administered under the skin and is intended only for individuals who test negative for HIV. Before starting Yeztugo, and before each biannual dose, HIV testing is required to avoid resistance if someone unknowingly has the virus. The treatment plan begins with two injections and two tablets, followed by two more tablets the next day. After that, patients receive one injection every six months. If a dose is delayed, a weekly pill can be used as a temporary substitute. However, if more than 28 weeks pass without treatment, the regimen may need to be restarted.
Yeztugo has shown impressive results in clinical trials, with near-total prevention of HIV infection among participants. It was well tolerated, with the most common side effects being injection site reactions, headaches, and nausea.
By significantly reducing the burden of daily pill-taking and offering strong, long-term protection, Yeztugo could play a pivotal role in ending the HIV epidemic especially in underserved and high-risk populations.
