Health 13 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Awaits New HIV Prevention Drug Doses Amidst Growing Demand
Uganda is anticipating approximately 7,600 doses of lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable HIV prevention drug, as demand surges and supplies dwindle at over 100 health facilities. The introduction of lenacapavir offers a significant alternative to daily oral PrEP, providing nearly 100% protection with just two doses annually. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/hiv-new-drug-gains-ground-as-uganda-awaits-about-7-600-doses-5556670
Uganda is set to receive an additional consignment of about 7,600 doses of lenacapavir, a groundbreaking injectable drug for HIV prevention. This new shipment aims to address the growing demand that has outstripped current supplies, with over 100 health facilities experiencing stock shortages.
Lenacapavir, marketed as YEZTUGO for PrEP, represents a significant advancement in Uganda’s HIV prevention strategy. Approved last year, this long-acting injectable capsid inhibitor requires only two doses per year and has demonstrated nearly 100% efficacy in preventing HIV infection during clinical trials. It offers individuals at substantial risk of HIV an alternative to daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
Since its national rollout in April, interest in lenacapavir has been high among adult Ugandans. While women initially constituted the majority of recipients, uptake among men is steadily increasing, according to Dr. Herbert Kadama, the Ministry of Health’s coordinator for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). Current data shows approximately 56% of recipients are female and 44% are male, with gender distribution varying by age group.
Uganda received its first batch of 19,200 doses on February 24, 2026, and has secured commitments for an additional 60,000 doses. The drug’s biannual administration offers convenience for many, particularly those who find daily medication challenging due to forgetfulness, stigma, or lifestyle factors. Beneficiaries like Michael Elvis Tusubira and Saidi Katende have expressed satisfaction with the convenience and effectiveness of the injection.
Lenacapavir belongs to a new class of HIV medicines called capsid inhibitors, which interfere with the virus’s protective covering at various stages of its life cycle, preventing replication. While highly effective against HIV, health officials emphasize that lenacapavir does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), hepatitis B, or unintended pregnancies, underscoring the continued importance of comprehensive prevention methods.