Lenacapavir

Lenacapavir is an HIV-1 capsid inhibitor, a type of antiretroviral drug made by Gilead Sciences. It first came into use for treating multidrug-resistant HIV, and in June 2025 the FDA approved it as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent sexually acquired HIV. Sold under the brand name Yeztugo, it is given as a subcutaneous injection just twice a year, making it the first and only twice-yearly PrEP option. In the Phase 3 PURPOSE 1 and PURPOSE 2 trials, more than 99.9 percent of participants stayed HIV negative, with efficacy reported near 100 percent. Because it removes the need for a daily pill, it addresses a major barrier for people who struggle with adherence. It is approved for people weighing at least 35 kg.