What is the annual cost of generic lenacapavir in low-income countries?

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The annual cost of generic lenacapavir in low-income countries is approximately US$40.

Indian pharmaceutical companies Dr Reddy’s Laboratories and Hetero Labs have announced that they will offer generic versions of the HIV prevention drug lenacapavir for around US$40 per year. This pricing is anticipated to significantly increase access to the medication in low- and middle-income nations. The generic versions are scheduled to become available from 2027 onwards.
Availability and Pricing of Generic Lenacapavir

Lenacapavir, originally developed by Gilead Sciences and marketed as Yeztugo, is an injectable medication administered twice a year. Clinical trials have demonstrated its effectiveness in HIV prevention, with nearly 100 per cent efficacy in large-scale studies. The projected annual cost of US$40 for the generic version represents a substantial reduction compared to the estimated US$28,000 annual cost of the branded Yeztugo in the United States. This affordability is crucial for expanding access in regions disproportionately affected by HIV.
Support and Collaboration for Access

The development and distribution of low-cost generic lenacapavir are being facilitated through collaborations with several global health organisations. Unitaid, in conjunction with the Clinton Health Access Initiative and the Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), is providing technical and financial support to Dr Reddy's. Similarly, the Gates Foundation is partnering with Hetero Labs to advance this initiative. These partnerships are essential in ensuring that the breakthrough prevention option reaches a wider population.
Licensing and Global Reach

Gilead Sciences has granted royalty-free licenses to six manufacturers, including Dr Reddy's and Hetero, enabling them to produce and distribute lenacapavir in 120 low- and lower-middle income countries by 2027, subject to regulatory approvals. This licensing agreement is a key component in the strategy to make the drug accessible where it is most needed. The US$40 annual price point is designed to be comparable to the cost of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), offering a more convenient and potentially more effective option for many individuals.

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What is the annual cost of generic lenacapavir in low-income countries?

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