The South African government is negotiating a deal with Gilead Sciences to allow domestic production of a groundbreaking HIV prevention medicine after months of controversy over access to the treatment.
Specifically, the drugmaker would issue a voluntary license so one or more South African companies could manufacture the medicine, known as lenacapavir. As part of the effort, the government is working with Unitaid and US Pharmacopeia, a nonprofit that develops standards for medicines, to identify companies that can produce suitable versions.
The arrangement is significant because South Africa is a crucial market for the drug, which has caused a stir among health policymakers and providers. Study data showed a single set of injections every six months can offer virtually complete protection against infection, a form of prevention known as pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP.Continue to STAT+ to read the full story…