Eswatini's Pioneering Step: Lenacapavir Revolutionizes HIV Prevention

Eswatini introduces lenacapavir, a groundbreaking HIV prevention drug, to combat the burden of the virus. The U.S.-formulated injectable medication is tailored for long-term protection minimizing the pitfalls of daily oral pills. With promising initial acceptance, Eswatini plans wider distribution across its health facilities.

Eswatini has announced that it has become one of the few countries to roll out the HIV prevention drug, lenacapavir, officially. Since December, 2,000 Swazis have received the injection, a significant stride in combating HIV.

Originally developed in the United States, lenacapavir has also been introduced in seven other African countries facing high HIV prevalence rates. Sindy Matse, program manager for Eswatini's National AIDS Programme, emphasized the enthusiastic reception of the drug but noted the initial stock nearly ran out due to high demand.

Manufactured by U.S.-based Gilead Sciences, lenacapavir is injected subcutaneously twice a year. It offers a solution to challenges posed by daily oral PrEP pills, such as forgetfulness and inconsistent access. Eswatini plans to make the drug available in all 206 health facilities currently offering PrEP.

(With inputs from agencies.)