The revolutionary HIV-preventing drug, lenacapavir, is set to become significantly cheaper starting in 2027. Indian pharmaceutical companies will manufacture it, reducing its annual cost from 2.3 million rupees to just ₹3,500. This effective injection, which requires only two doses a year, will significantly help end the HIV epidemic.

There's some great news in the health sector. A revolutionary drug that prevents the serious disease HIV is about to become much cheaper. Starting in 2027, it will be available in more than 100 countries for just $40, or about ₹3,500 annually. This offers hope to millions of people living at risk from this disease.

What is this medicine and why is it so special?

This drug is called Lenacapavir. It's an injection that needs to be administered only twice a year. Studies have shown this drug to be more than 99.9% effective in preventing HIV infection. Imagine, just two injections a year can keep you almost completely safe from this deadly disease.

Currently, this drug is sold in the US under the brand name Yeztugo and costs approximately $28,000 (about Rs 2.3 million) annually. This high price has put it out of reach for most people.

Indian companies will make cheap medicines

Indian pharmaceutical companies are playing a key role in this significant relief. Major health organizations like United and the Gates Foundation have signed agreements with Indian pharmaceutical companies (such as Dr. Reddy's Laboratories and Hetero). These companies will produce cheaper, or generic, versions of lenacapavir, reducing its price by thousands of times.

"Scientific discoveries like lenacapavir can help us end the HIV epidemic, but only if they reach those who need it most," said Trevor Mandel, Head of Global Health at the Gates Foundation.

Why is this a big step?

Efforts to prevent HIV are ongoing worldwide, but millions of people are still infected each year. According to 2024 data, 1.3 million people were infected with HIV. In such a situation, the arrival of an effective and affordable drug could be a major turning point in this fight. Experts even say that with the help of this drug, we can fulfill the dream of eliminating HIV.

This agreement is a boon for low- and middle-income countries, where HIV is most at risk. While it may take until 2027, it is certainly a major step toward a healthier future.

 PC:Latestly