Gates Foundation partners with Indian drugmakers to speed rollout of $40 HIV shot

Core Insights - A new generic version of lenacapavir, an HIV prevention tool, is set to reach millions, priced at approximately $40 per patient annually, compared to Gilead's list price of over $28,000 [1][8] - The collaboration between Indian manufacturers and organizations like Unitaid and the Clinton Health Access Initiative aims to expand the supply of lenacapavir, potentially accelerating its availability to high-risk populations [2][8] - Despite advancements in HIV treatment, 1.3 million new infections occurred last year, with two-thirds of those living with HIV located in Africa, where prevention tools are limited [3][6] Group 1 - Lenacapavir offers a six-month protection with a single injection, which is particularly beneficial for women facing challenges with daily pill adherence [4][5] - The cost of lenacapavir previously limited access, especially for participants in clinical trials in South Africa, compounded by cuts to US foreign aid affecting African health systems [5][6] - Gilead's announcement to allow generic manufacturers to produce lenacapavir for 120 resource-limited countries marks a significant step towards improving access, although historical timelines for such arrangements have been lengthy [7][8] Group 2 - New agreements with Indian manufacturers could significantly reduce the time required to make lenacapavir widely available, with only 18% of those who could benefit from PrEP currently having access [8] - Gilead plans to complete regulatory submissions for lenacapavir for PrEP in 18 countries by the end of the year, with expectations for the first supplies to reach low and lower middle-income countries [8] - A modest rollout of lenacapavir could potentially prevent up to 20% of new HIV infections in high-burden countries, with distribution through national HIV programs and procurement channels like the Global Fund [9]