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The 25th International AIDS Conference presented promising results regarding a revolutionary antiretroviral treatment developed by Gilead, based on the lenacapavir molecule. This treatment could transform HIV management. Currently priced at around $40,000 (approximately 400,000 Moroccan dirhams) per person per year, estimates disclosed in Munich suggest the generic version could cost as little as $40.
Unlike current daily medications, this treatment requires only two injections per year. Moreover, it is being tested as a preventive drug (PrEP) with very promising results from a recent preliminary study showing 100% efficacy. According to Andrew Hill from the University of Liverpool, administering this treatment similar to a vaccine could potentially stop HIV transmission if given to high-risk individuals, such as sex workers, prisoners, and young women, particularly in Africa.
In Morocco, at the end of 2022, the estimated number of people living with HIV was 21,500, with an estimated 800 new infections and 400 deaths attributed to AIDS. Globally, nearly 30 million people live with HIV, but about 10 million of them do not have access to treatment. In 2023, approximately 1.3 million new HIV infections were recorded.
The high cost remains a major obstacle to widespread use of the treatment, with similar prices observed in the United States, France, Norway, and Australia. However, researchers emphasized that cost reduction could be feasible if Gilead allowed production of generic versions. Based on large-scale production for millions of patients, costs could significantly decrease.
In an interview with AFP, Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS, urged Gilead to «make history» by allowing «production of generics of its antiretroviral». Facing increasing pressure from NGOs and public figures, Gilead indicated it is in ongoing discussions with various stakeholders to facilitate access to the treatment.
