Lenacapavir: A Game-Changer in HIV Prevention
On September 24, 2025, an unprecedented partnership was announced that promises to transform HIV prevention in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories has entered into a landmark agreement with Unitaid, the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and Wits RHI to make the injectable HIV prevention tool lenacapavir available for an affordable price of just US$40 per year. This pricing will begin in 2027, making a significant impact on global health by increasing accessibility to effective HIV prevention methods.
Understanding Lenacapavir
Originally developed by Gilead Sciences, lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable that is administered twice a year. It has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in preventing HIV, offering an alternative to daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) pills, which can be challenging for many individuals to maintain adherence. According to UNAIDS data, although global efforts have reduced new HIV infections by 40% since 2010, 1.3 million new infections were reported in 2024 alone. The introduction of lenacapavir could dramatically change the landscape of HIV prevention for those struggling with daily medication.
The Role of Unitaid and CHAI
This strategic agreement, brokered by Unitaid and CHAI, equips Dr. Reddy’s with essential financial, technical, and regulatory support to deliver affordable, quality-assured generic versions of lenacapavir to LMICs. Remarkably, this is expected to occur within two years following regulatory approval, a timeline that is significantly shorter than the traditional decade-long process typically required for widespread drug availability in these regions.
A Competitive and Sustainable Market
The initiative represents part of a broader, multi-partner strategy aimed at fostering a competitive market for long-acting HIV prevention solutions. Alongside this agreement, the Gates Foundation has also secured a separate accord with Hetero Labs, ensuring that reliable and affordable options will be available to communities worldwide.
Statements from Key Stakeholders
Dr. Philippe Duneton, Executive Director of Unitaid, emphasized the significance of this agreement: “Securing a US$40 price for the twice-yearly lenacapavir injection for PrEP is a historic breakthrough that proves the most advanced tools can be made affordable from the very start.” This sentiment was echoed by Bill Clinton, co-founder of CHAI, who called the partnership a transformative moment in HIV prevention efforts.
Your Role: The Urgency of Access
The importance of making lenacapavir accessible to those who need it cannot be overstated. Deepak Sapra, CEO of API and Services at Dr. Reddy’s, stated, “This partnership combines our deep science and market expertise with our partners’ strengths, reinforcing our commitment to address the needs of underserved populations.” Likewise, Professor Saiqa Mullick from Wits RHI stressed the necessity of generic manufacturing in ensuring that this groundbreaking HIV prevention option is available to all.
Future Projections and Moving Forward
As of October 2024, Gilead has granted voluntary licenses to six generic manufacturers, including Dr. Reddy’s, allowing them to supply lenacapavir across 120 LMICs. Complementary initiatives, such as commitments from PEPFAR and the Global Fund to procure lenacapavir for up to 2 million people in LMICs, further exemplify the global commitment to combatting the HIV epidemic.
Kate Hampton, CEO of the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), remarked, “The deals announced today on generics represent a major step forward on a sustainable pathway toward ending the HIV epidemic. Together, through multiple interventions, partners are helping foster a competitive market, ensuring access to lenacapavir is affordable and reliable for all who need it.”
Conclusion
The agreement between Unitaid, CHAI, Wits RHI, and Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories marks a historic advancement in the fight against HIV. By making lenacapavir affordable for patients in low- and middle-income countries, we are taking crucial steps toward a future where effective HIV prevention is within reach for everyone.
