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Brazil Advances Injectable HIV PrEP Rollout, Explores Local Production After FiocruzGilead Memorandum

A feasibility study in seven cities will guide SUS decisions on lenacapavir.

Overview

  • Anvisa cleared lenacapavir (Sunlenca) for PrEP on January 12 for people aged 12 or older who weigh at least 35 kg.
  • Fiocruz’s ImPrEP LEN Brasil will begin in Rio de Janeiro, Nova Iguaçu, São Paulo, Campinas, Salvador, Florianópolis and Manaus once specific injection supplies arrive.
  • The study targets gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, plus transgender and non‑binary people designated male at birth, ages 16 to 30.
  • Gilead and Fiocruz/Farmanguinhos signed a non‑binding memorandum to evaluate cooperation, including potential technology transfer that could enable local manufacturing before patent expiry.
  • Nationwide access depends on CMED setting a price ceiling and Conitec and the Health Ministry evaluating incorporation into SUS, with Unitaid funding the study and Gilead donating doses as global prices remain high.