The European Commission approved a twice-yearly HIV prevention shot across the EU, confirmed Gilead.
The European Medicines Agency recommended lenacapavir last month, calling it a first-of-its-kind treatment.
Gilead will market the injection as Yeytuo in the EU, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
Lenacapavir Blocks Virus Transmission
Lenacapavir acts as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), stopping HIV from replicating in the body.
The injection protects both adults and adolescents from infection.
Clinical trials showed complete effectiveness, earning praise as a major 2024 medical breakthrough.
Yeytuo eliminates the need for daily PrEP pills, offering a twice-yearly alternative.
Rising Cases Highlight Need for Prevention
HIV diagnoses rose 11.8 per cent in 2023, totaling over 24,700 across EU and nearby countries.
Dr. Dietmar Berger said rapid approval demonstrates Yeytuo’s ability to meet urgent prevention needs.
The US FDA approved the drug, and WHO endorsed it as an additional HIV prevention option.
Gilead Expands Global Access
Gilead is seeking approval in Australia, Brazil, Canada, South Africa, and Switzerland, adding Argentina, Mexico, and Peru soon.
The company will sell generic versions in 120 lower-income nations with high HIV rates.
Limited availability may persist due to US cuts in global health funding.
HIV Remains a Worldwide Threat
HIV affects approximately 40.8 million people worldwide.
Last year, AIDS-related illnesses claimed an estimated 630,000 lives globally.
