The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has approved Lenacapavir, a six-monthly PrEP injection to prevent HIV-1 in adults and adolescents weighing at least 35 kg.
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South Africa has received its first batch of the HIV prevention medicine Lenacapavir, consisting of 37 920 doses, the health department announced on Tuesday.
The medicine, a six-monthly injectable, is part of the country’s integrated and people-centred HIV prevention strategy, aimed at reducing new infections and sustaining the HIV response in line with the Global AIDS Strategy for 2026–2030.
“This is part of integrated, differentiated and people-centred HIV prevention services which offer new hope for people who face barriers to existing HIV prevention methods,” the department said.
The introduction of Lenacapavir is expected to expand HIV prevention options and improve adherence, particularly among vulnerable groups including adolescent girls and young women, sex workers, and men who have sex with men.
“Lenacapavir is preventive medicine, not a vaccine, considered one of the most exciting HIV prevention advances in years.”
The Department confirmed that the medicine arrived in South Africa last Thursday, with an official launch planned in the coming weeks. The phased implementation plan will be announced at that time.
Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi said he was enthusiastic about the development, noting that the President will lead the launch.
“This six-monthly injectable has arrived in the country last week Thursday and is expected to expand HIV prevention choices, improve adherence especially amongst the most vulnerable priority groups,” the department said.
Cape Times