The European Commission approved a twice-yearly injection to prevent HIV across member states.
Gilead confirmed the approval follows a recommendation from the European Medicines Agency last month.
Lenacapavir will be sold under the brand name Yeytuo in the EU, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
Lenacapavir Delivers High-Level Protection
Lenacapavir blocks HIV replication and stops the virus from spreading in the body.
The injection provides protection for both adults and adolescents.
Clinical trials showed 100 per cent effectiveness, making experts hail it as a major 2024 medical breakthrough.
Yeytuo replaces daily pills as Europe’s first twice-yearly PrEP option.
Rising Infections Highlight Need
HIV cases in 2023 increased 11.8 per cent, totaling over 24,700 in the EU, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
Dr. Dietmar Berger said the rapid approval demonstrates Yeytuo’s potential to meet urgent prevention needs.
The US FDA approved the drug, and WHO recommended it as an additional HIV prevention tool.
Global Rollout and Access
Gilead seeks approval in Australia, Brazil, Canada, South Africa, and Switzerland, soon adding Argentina, Mexico, and Peru.
The company agreed to provide generics in 120 lower-income countries with high HIV rates.
Experts warn the drug’s availability may remain limited after US global health funding cuts this year.
HIV Remains a Worldwide Threat
HIV affects approximately 40.8 million people globally.
In 2024, AIDS-related illnesses killed about 630,000 people worldwide.
