Uganda Poised to Roll Out Revolutionary Six-Month HIV Prevention Injection

Uganda is on the cusp of a major breakthrough in HIV prevention, with the Uganda AIDS Commission announcing the successful establishment of Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking six-monthly injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which offers 100% protection against HIV acquisition for negative individuals. This innovative tool, in which Ugandan scientists played a key role in its research, is set to be integrated into the nation’s HIV prevention program.

Following its recent approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Lenacapavir will soon be available in Uganda, pending crucial consultations with stakeholders and compliance with local regulatory requirements. This development marks a significant step towards achieving Uganda’s ambitious goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with relevant partners, will undertake a series of critical steps to facilitate the rollout of Lenacapavir: Licensing: The National Drug Authority (NDA) will evaluate and license the drug for use within the country. Guideline Updates: National HIV prevention guidelines will be updated to incorporate and guide on the appropriate use of Lenacapavir.

Healthcare Provider Training: Healthcare professionals will receive comprehensive training and be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to prescribe and monitor Lenacapavir use effectively. Essential Drugs List Inclusion: Lenacapavir will be incorporated into the country’s essential drugs list, ensuring broader accessibility. Data Monitoring: Tools will be revised to enable precise data capture on Lenacapavir use, facilitating client monitoring and accountability.

Once these essential steps are completed, Lenacapavir will seamlessly integrate into Uganda’s existing HIV prevention efforts, significantly expanding the options available to individuals at high risk of HIV infection. In the interim, oral PrEP will continue to be provided at designated facilities across the country.

Uganda’s commitment to innovative solutions is further demonstrated by the advanced stages of making Carbotegravir, another highly effective injectable PrEP administered every two months, locally available. This drug has already been incorporated into the Ministry of Health’s HIV prevention guidelines.

This dual approach, combining the existing oral PrEP with the upcoming long-acting injectable options, positions Uganda at the forefront of global HIV prevention efforts. The introduction of Lenacapavir, with its proven 100% efficacy and convenient six-monthly dosing, is anticipated to dramatically enhance adherence and reach, offering a powerful new weapon in the fight against HIV/AIDS.