Lenacapavir shows promise as annual HIV prevention injection

A new annual injection for HIV prevention, lenacapavir, has successfully completed early safety trials. This treatment stops the virus from replicating and could become the longest-acting option available, differing from current daily pills and eight-week injections. In the trial, 40 HIV-negative participants received the injection with no major side effects. The drug remained detectable in their bodies for 56 weeks. Future trials will aim for more diverse participants. Experts highlight that lenacapavir could improve access to HIV prevention. Current PrEP options have faced accessibility issues, with some regions lacking availability. The Scottish Medicines Consortium has approved two-monthly injections, while England awaits further approval.