Gilead Faces Price Debate Over 'Miracle' HIV Drug Lenacapavir

Key Points:

• Lenacapavir, a new HIV prevention drug by Gilead Sciences, is nearly 100% effective with just two shots a year but costs $14,000 per dose in the US, making it unaffordable for many in Latin America where HIV is prevalent.
• Although Gilead offers generic versions at around $40 per dose in 120 low- and middle-income countries, many Latin American nations like Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Peru are excluded due to their "upper-middle income" status, leaving them unable to afford the US price.
• Negotiations between Gilead and governments such as Brazil have stalled over pricing, with Brazil’s health minister criticizing the high cost and accusing the company of prioritizing profit over access, while Gilead maintains it is working collaboratively with regional partners.
• Alternative HIV prevention drugs from companies like Merck and ViiV Healthcare are being explored and incorporated into Latin American programs, potentially providing more affordable long-acting PrEP options and breaking the pricing deadlock.
• Despite the promise of long-acting PrEP drugs to curb HIV infections, Latin America’s epidemic is worsening, with new infections rising 25% since 2010, highlighting urgent needs for expanded access, increased supply, and affordable pricing.