The European Commission approved a twice-yearly injection to prevent HIV across the European Union.
Gilead confirmed regulators recommended the medicine last month.
Lenacapavir, marketed as Yeytuo, will also be available in Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
Lenacapavir Prevents HIV Spread
Lenacapavir acts as pre-exposure prophylaxis, blocking HIV replication and spread in the body.
The injection protects both adults and adolescents from infection.
Clinical trials demonstrated 100 percent effectiveness, earning praise as a major 2024 medical breakthrough.
Yeytuo eliminates the need for daily PrEP pills, offering the first twice-yearly option in Europe.
Rising Infections Highlight Need
HIV cases in the EU, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein rose 11.8 percent in 2023 to over 24,700.
Dr. Dietmar Berger emphasized Yeytuo addresses the urgent demand for HIV prevention across Europe.
The US FDA approved the injection, and WHO recommended it as an additional prevention option.
Gilead Expands Access Worldwide
Gilead seeks approvals in Australia, Brazil, Canada, South Africa, and Switzerland, adding Argentina, Mexico, and Peru.
The company will sell generic versions in 120 lower-income countries with high HIV rates.
Experts warn availability may remain limited after US global health funding cuts.
HIV Remains a Global Threat
HIV affects roughly 40.8 million people worldwide.
Last year, AIDS-related illnesses killed an estimated 630,000 people globally.
