US pharmaceutical company Gilead announced Wednesday it has signed licensing agreements with six generic drugmakers to produce its HIV prevention medicine for lower-income countries.
The move follows pressure to allow the production of generic versions of lenacapavir, an antiretroviral drug.
Lenacapavir has shown 100 percent effectiveness in preventing HIV infection in early trials and is seen as a major breakthrough in the fight against HIV.
The licensing deals will allow the production of lower-cost versions of the drug in 120 countries, pending regulatory approval.
Gilead CEO Daniel O’Day stated the company is working urgently with generic manufacturers to begin production once approvals are granted.
Lenacapavir costs more than $40,000 per year in some countries, but researchers believe it could be made for as little as $40.
International health agency Unitaid welcomed the announcement, calling the drug potentially game-changing in the fight against HIV.
Unitaid executive director Philippe Duneton emphasized the need for swift, global access to lenacapavir.
Gilead is also prioritizing registration of the drug in 18 high-incidence countries, including Kenya and South Africa, while generic versions are being developed.
