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Patent Barriers Threaten Access to Life-Saving HIV Drug
28 Nov
Summary
- New long-acting HIV prevention drug faces regulatory and patent hurdles.
- Activists warn delays will impact marginalized communities most.
- Gilead's patent filings may restrict affordable generic production.
Healthcare activists in India have voiced concerns over impending delays in accessing lenacapavir, a groundbreaking long-acting medication for HIV prevention. They warn that regulatory obstacles and patent-related issues could impede access for the communities most vulnerable to the epidemic.
Despite lenacapavir offering nearly 100% protection, its widespread availability is threatened. Activists highlight that while Indian manufacturers can produce generics affordably, Gilead Sciences' patent filings in India could restrict competition and the timely global rollout of these essential medicines.
Global efforts to curb new HIV infections have stalled, underscoring the urgent need for effective prevention tools. The LEN-LA for All Coalition urges a decisive response from regulatory bodies and patent offices to ensure lenacapavir becomes accessible without delay.
