Breakthrough As SA Approves World’s First Twice-Yearly HIV Prevention Injection

South Africa has made medical history after the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) approved Lenacapavir, the world’s first injectable HIV prevention treatment that only needs to be administered twice a year.

The new treatment marks a major step forward in the fight against the disease, offering an alternative to the daily oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) pills currently used to reduce infection risk.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Lenacapavir provides a highly effective prevention option, as users only need an injection every six months.

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SAHPRA spokesperson Yuven Gounden said the approval represents a significant advancement but emphasised that safe sex practices remain essential.

“The registration of Lenacapavir is a game-changer, given the high prevalence rate of HIV in South Africa. This product is the most effective HIV prevention measure thus far,” said Gounden.

A Game-Changer in HIV Prevention

Lenacapavir’s approval is expected to transform HIV prevention strategies across South Africa, a country that continues to face one of the highest HIV infection rates globally.

The twice-yearly dosage could dramatically improve adherence to preventive treatment, especially among individuals who find daily pill regimens challenging to maintain.

Health experts say that the drug’s long-acting formulation could be particularly beneficial for high-risk populations and help close gaps in access to consistent prevention.

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