**World Is Now One Step Closer to Ending the HIV Epidemic**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 24, 2025, 08:00 PM*
A groundbreaking development in the fight against HIV/AIDS is on the horizon. A new injectable drug, Lenacapavir, which prevents HIV infection, will soon be available at an affordable price in over 100 low-income countries. This milestone is expected to give millions access to this breakthrough treatment and bring the world closer to ending the HIV epidemic.
### Breakthrough Drug: Lenacapavir
Lenacapavir, endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in July 2025, is an innovative injectable that prevents the replication of the HIV virus inside cells. Administered just twice a year, the injection provides six months of protection against HIV infection. This long-acting formulation could significantly reduce new infections among vulnerable groups such as adolescent girls and young women, LGBTQ+ communities, sex workers, and drug users.
### Dramatic Cost Reduction
Currently priced at $28,000 per person annually, Lenacapavir will be made available for just $40 per year by 2027 in participating low-income countries. This significant price cut is the result of an agreement brokered by former US President Bill Clinton following negotiations with pharmaceutical companies. The deal involves the Clinton Foundation, Gates Foundation, and organizations including South Africa’s Wits Research Institute (Wits RHI).
The new generic version of Lenacapavir is still pending regulatory approval but is expected to be accessible within the next 18 months.
### Preventing Infections and Treating Patients
Studies show that providing Lenacapavir to just 4% of the population could prevent up to 20% of new HIV infections. The drug’s dual capability as both a preventive measure and a treatment option for those already infected makes it an invaluable tool in global HIV/AIDS efforts.
### Health Impact and Access in South Africa
This announcement comes at a crucial time for global health, especially in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Despite notable progress since 2000, approximately 1.3 million people contracted HIV last year, and over 600,000 died from AIDS-related illnesses.
South Africa, home to nearly eight million people living with HIV—the highest number globally—will be among the first countries to access this affordable, life-saving drug. The availability of Lenacapavir there promises to transform the country’s HIV prevention and treatment landscape.
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The introduction of affordable Lenacapavir marks a hopeful turning point in ending the HIV epidemic worldwide, offering effective, accessible protection to millions in need.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/new-hiv-prevention-injection-to-cost-just-40/story