The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention drug Lenacapavir has been added to the Department of Health’s National Essential Medicines List.
The Health Department says the twice-a-year injectable HIV prevention medicine, recently registered with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), will ensure access to safe, effective, quality and affordable medicines for use in the public sector.
Health spokesperson Foster Mohale says the drug has the potential to address critical gaps in existing HIV prevention methods.
“The inclusion of treatments like Lenacapavir on the Essential Medicines List is crucial to encourage manufacturing of generic medicines to improve their availability and affordability, especially in low- and middle-income countries like South Africa. Lenacapavir has the potential to address critical gaps in current HIV prevention methods,” adds Mohale.
— National Department of Health (@HealthZA) November 18, 2025
