Gilead Sciences has achieved a historic milestone in the global fight against HIV with the launch of Yeztugo (lenacapavir), the first FDA-approved twice-yearly injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Unlike daily oral HIV prevention medications, Yeztugo only requires two doses per year, addressing one of the biggest challenges in HIV prevention—patient adherence.

CEO Daniel O’Day emphasized that Yeztugo represents “clear medical and societal value” and has the potential to change the course of the HIV epidemic.

Yeztugo (Lenacapavir)
Yeztugo (Lenacapavir)


What is Yeztugo (Lenacapavir)?

Yeztugo is a long-acting HIV prevention injection designed for people at risk of contracting HIV. It works by blocking the HIV capsid protein, which is essential for the virus to replicate and spread in the body.

Dosing: Every 6 months (twice yearly)

Effectiveness: 99.9% protection in clinical trials

Target group: High-risk individuals, especially those struggling with daily pill adherence


Why is Yeztugo a Breakthrough?

  1. Convenience & Adherence
    Traditional HIV prevention methods like Truvada or Descovy require daily dosing, which many people find difficult to maintain. Yeztugo eliminates this issue with twice-yearly injections.

  2. High Effectiveness
    Clinical trial results showed over 99.9% of participants remained HIV-negative, making it one of the most effective prevention methods to date.

  3. Global Access Strategy
    Gilead is working with organizations like the Global Fund to provide Yeztugo at no profit in low- and middle-income countries, ensuring wider accessibility.

  4. Historic Advancement
    As O’Day stated, this drug could be the “game-changer” that brings the world closer to ending the HIV epidemic.


Global Impact of Yeztugo

In the U.S. → Provides a new, easier prevention option for communities disproportionately affected by HIV.

In Africa & Asia → Partnerships with global health organizations aim to supply the drug to millions of people at little or no cost.

On Public Health → By removing the challenge of adherence, Yeztugo could drastically lower new HIV infection rates worldwide.


FAQ's

1. What is Yeztugo used for?

Yeztugo is used for HIV prevention (PrEP). It is not a treatment for people who are already HIV-positive.

2. How often do you take Yeztugo?

Yeztugo requires just two injections per year—one every 6 months.

3. Is Yeztugo better than daily PrEP pills?

Yes. While daily pills like Truvada are effective, adherence is often an issue. Yeztugo’s long-acting injection solves this problem.

4. Is Yeztugo available worldwide?

Currently, it is FDA-approved in the U.S., and Gilead is expanding access through global partnerships, especially in low-income regions.

5. How effective is Yeztugo?

Clinical studies showed over 99.9% effectiveness, making it the most reliable HIV prevention method available.


Conclusion

Gilead’s Yeztugo (lenacapavir) is more than just a drug—it’s a medical milestone. By combining scientific innovation, convenience, and global access initiatives, Yeztugo has the potential to end new HIV transmissions on a worldwide scale.

With FDA approval and strong global partnerships, this twice-yearly shot may finally turn the vision of a world without HIV into reality.