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New HIV Shot Yeztugo Faces Patient Hurdles
5 May
Summary
- New twice-yearly HIV injection Yeztugo faces patient interest and insurance coverage issues.
- Despite high effectiveness, daily pills remain more popular than the new injection.
- The drug's high list price and coverage gaps hinder its widespread adoption.
Gilead Sciences' new twice-yearly HIV injection, Yeztugo, has faced a slower adoption rate than anticipated since its June launch. Healthcare providers indicate that patient interest is mixed, with many facing challenges related to insurance coverage and a preference for daily oral medications. The injection's twice-yearly administration in a clinical setting is also less appealing to some compared to convenient daily pills.
Despite Yeztugo's near 100% effectiveness in preventing HIV infection, its high list price of over $14,000 per dose presents a significant barrier. Insurance companies often classify it as a medical benefit, leading to patient cost-sharing through co-payments or deductibles. This contrasts with generic daily pills, which cost significantly less and are increasingly delivered via telehealth services, bypassing traditional doctor visits.
